Kia will use 55 tons of recycled plastic from the Pacific Ocean in its new electric vehicles

2023-09-11 22:35:48

In an exciting move toward sustainability, Kia plans to incorporate a total of 55 tons of recycled plastic recovered from the Pacific Ocean into its future electric vehicle models. This historic achievement is the result of collaboration with The Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit organization dedicated to removing plastic from the oceans.

Perspective Writing

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP), the largest accumulation of floating debris in the world, has been the focus of this remarkable cleanup operation. Using The Ocean Cleanup’s advanced System 002 extraction technology, 55 tons of plastic were removed from the Pacific Ocean.

This recycled material will be used by Kia in the manufacturing of electric vehicle models, thus fulfilling its commitment to offering sustainable mobility solutions that have a measurable impact on promoting sustainability at scale.

Kia has already successfully implemented more than 30 sustainable solutions in various areas of its products, including fabrics and carpets made from recycled PET, bio-based alternative leather and BTX-free paint. In the case of the brand’s 7-seater electric SUV, the EV9, recycled waste, such as fishing nets recovered from the ocean, is used to create the vehicle’s carpets.

Immediately after this feat, The Ocean Cleanup announced the introduction of its new technology, System 03, three times larger than System 002. This new technology is capable of capturing greater amounts of plastic continuously throughout the year, at a lower cost per kilogram removed. Plus, it has advanced safety features to protect marine life.

The partnership between Kia and The Ocean Cleanup is a testament to Kia’s commitment to its journey towards a more sustainable future and its continued support for this cause. The brand is proud to represent its commitment through the Kia logo and colors on every outfit worn by the System 03 crew.

Charles Ryu, senior vice president and head of Global Brand & CX, Kia Corp., said: “The record capture of plastics and recycling demonstrates how technology can deliver sustainable solutions at scale. “Kia’s partnership with The Ocean Cleanup reflects our commitment to making a positive impact on sustainability.”

Nisha Bakker, Director of Partnerships at The Ocean Cleanup, said: “This record delivery marks the end of an era and the launch of System 03. We believe System 03 represents the size needed to economically expand our cleanup. “We can’t do it alone, and committed partners like Kia are essential to achieving our shared goals of plastic-free oceans.”