Gimme Seaweed Partners with rePurpose Global to Combat Plastic Pollution
Pioneer organic seaweed snack brand takes sustainability mission further with Plastic Recovery Pledge
Gimme Seaweed, the pioneer organic seaweed snack brand, has entered a partnership with rePurpose Global, a leader in certified plastic recovery, to take on the global challenge of plastic pollution. As a brand committed to sustainability, Gimme Seaweed acknowledges the vital role of seaweed as a regenerative crop. Seaweed is one of the few farmed foods that has a net positive environmental impact and can thrive without the need for fresh water. When farmed organically, without pesticides and chemicals, it helps maintain our oceans' cleanliness and contributes to combating climate change.
Building on the natural sustainability of seaweed, Gimme was the first company to launch a line of Roasted Seaweed Snacks that are free from plastic packaging, establishing a new standard for eco-friendly practices in the snack industry. Their collaboration with rePurpose Global aims to elevate their sustainability objectives by actively engaging in the removal of ocean-bound plastics, reinforcing a shared vision of developing a circular, inclusive, and waste-free economy.
This partnership will enable Gimme Seaweed to support rePurpose Global's initiatives focused on specific areas in Indonesia, a country that is home to 18% of the world’s coral reefs and significantly contributes to ocean plastic pollution.
Supporting Ocean Restoration Projects
Through their collaboration, Gimme is set to support several impactful projects:
Initiatives in Bali
Gimme's involvement with Project Segara Kerthi aims to safeguard ocean and reef ecosystems in Bali. This biodiversity hotspot is crucial as it houses six of the seven marine turtle species, which face tremendous threats from rising plastic pollution levels.
Efforts in West Java
Support for Project Laut Yang Tenang will help establish new collection and recycling systems for ocean-bound plastics in West Java. These initiatives focus on collecting plastics and transforming them into new products, promoting recycling and waste reduction.
Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
Steve Broad, Co-Founder and CEO of Gimme Seaweed, emphasized the company's responsibility as the first seaweed snack brand in the United States to lead by example. He stated, "By implementing our Plastic Recovery Pledge with rePurpose Global, we are demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship as we actively tackle plastic pollution. Our goal is to make a significant impact on the health of our planet's ecosystems for generations to come."
Gimme’s efforts are not solely focused on eliminating plastic waste; they are also dedicated to generating social and environmental benefits in regions most affected by plastic pollution. To date, rePurpose Global’s impact projects have recovered over 60 million pounds of plastic waste, improving the livelihoods of waste workers and enforcing safer work conditions.
A Partnership for a Sustainable Future
"We are thrilled to partner with Gimme in our collective mission to address plastic pollution and drive transformational change," said Svanika Balasubramanian, Co-founder and CEO of rePurpose Global. "Gimme's dedication to sustainable action aligns perfectly with our goals. Together, we strive for a fairer and cleaner future where plastic waste is no longer a threat to our environment and communities."
About Gimme Seaweed
Based in Northern California, Gimme Seaweed was brought to life by visionary food entrepreneurs Annie Chun and Steve Broad. With experience gained from developing the successful Asian-inspired packaged food brand Annie Chun's, Gimme Seaweed has become the leading organic seaweed snack brand, expanding the market for organic, non-GMO seaweed in the U.S. Their seaweed is sustainably grown in protected agricultural regions off the southern and western coasts of Korea, ensuring top-notch nutrition and delightful flavor.
About rePurpose Global
As the leading Plastic Action Platform globally, rePurpose Global unites brands, consumers, innovators, and policymakers to tackle the plastic waste crisis head-on. Their pioneering solutions across the circular economy value chain have assisted over 350 companies in measuring, reducing, and acting on their plastic footprints while promoting systemic change worldwide.
With over 63 million pounds of plastic waste recovered from the environment, rePurpose Global protects vulnerable coastal regions around the globe, impacting millions of lives and enhancing waste management infrastructure.
Founded in 2016, rePurpose Global has expanded to employ over 70 full-time members across various offices worldwide. Their ongoing projects continue to make strides against plastic waste and bolster community resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mission of Gimme Seaweed?
Gimme Seaweed's mission focuses on providing sustainable snack options made from organic seaweed while addressing environmental issues like plastic pollution.
How does rePurpose Global work?
rePurpose Global collaborates with companies to help them measure and reduce their plastic waste, implementing recovery projects that collect and recycle plastic materials.
What are some projects supported by Gimme Seaweed?
Gimme Seaweed supports Project Segara Kerthi in Bali and Project Laut Yang Tenang in West Java, both aimed at reducing ocean plastic pollution.
Who are the founders of Gimme Seaweed?
Gimme Seaweed was founded by Annie Chun and Steve Broad, both of whom have extensive experience in the food industry.
What impact has rePurpose Global achieved?
rePurpose Global has recovered over 63 million pounds of plastic waste, significantly contributing to environmental protection and improving the lives of marginalized waste workers.
