The story of Mareel
Inspired by oceans, crafted with love
Mareel was born in early 2023 in Munich, Germany, driven by a deep concern for the growing urgency of ocean pollution. With over 400 million tons of plastic produced annually, approximately 14 million tons find their way into the oceans as a result of inadequate waste management practices. This poses a significant threat to our oceans and marine life, disrupting the natural beauty of marine ecosystems and endangering the delicate balance of marine life. Marine animals, such as turtles, seabirds, and marine mammals, often mistake plastic for food or become entangled in it, leading to injuries, suffocation, and even death.
Additionally, plastics do not biodegrade but instead break down into smaller microplastics, which can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, harming smaller marine organisms and having broader implications for human health and our foodchains. The harmful impacts of marine plastic underscore the urgent need for collective action to reduce plastic waste, promote recycling, and protect our oceans for future generations.
Mareel's Mission
Our mission is to eliminate plastic pollution by harnessing the power of sustainable design. By applying innovative techniques, Mareel upcycles marine plastic into functional and beautiful items that seamlessly integrate ocean plastic into our daily lives. From elegant vases and decorative accents to practical organizers and desk accessories, every Mareel product not only adds a touch of eco-chic to your space but also contributes to the preservation of our precious oceans. Join us in our commitment to a cleaner future as we turn the tide on plastic pollution, one innovative design at a time!
Our signature stands out in the elegant simplicity of our designs and the practicality embodied by every Mareel product. Explore our products
We are dedicated to preserving and protecting our oceans, and thus commit 5% of our yearly profits to NGOs actively engaged in beach plastic cleanup efforts.
The Story of Mareel's Name
The Milk Sea Phenomenon, also known as Mareel, is a captivating natural phenomenon that occurs when bioluminescent microorganisms illuminate the water, creating a mesmerizing display of ethereal blue light that resembles a sea of milky stars. This enchanting spectacle not only dazzles onlookers but also serves as a testament to the extraordinary beauty and diversity of our planet's ecosystems. Found in various coastal regions around the world, Mareel only occurs in healthy, plastic-free waters. This awe-inspiring phenomenon highlights the extraordinary beauty of our planet's ecosystems and emphasizes the importance of maintaining clean and pristine marine environments. (Picture Credit: iStock)
How to take action to reduce ocean plastics
Reducing plastic pollution requires collective action from individuals, governments, and companies. We can all help eliminate marine plastics if we:
- Reduce: By consciously reducing our use of plastics, we can make a significant impact. Opting for reusable alternatives to plastics, like metal or glass containers, and cloth bags, can greatly reduce plastic waste.
- Remove: Secondly, participating in activities such as beach cleanups helps remove existing plastic debris, preventing it from reaching our oceans.
- Recycle & Reuse: Finally, recycling and reusing plastics play a crucial role. By adopting recycling programs, supporting companies that use recycled materials, and choosing products made from recycled plastics, we can close the loop and minimize the demand for new plastic production.
Together, through conscious choices and collaborative efforts, we can combat plastic pollution and safeguard the health of our planet for future generations.
Useful Resources
Learn more about the problem of ocean plastics at the website of National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian, USA.
If you would like to participate in a beach clean-up, learn more about EU Beach Cleanup campaign or look for organisations in your area that organize beach clean-ups.
