Boyan Slat
1994– — Netherlands
Era: Modern
Brilliance: 7/10 | Stewardship: 8/10 | Composite Index: 56
Founded The Ocean Cleanup at 18.
"If you really want to make a difference, don't ask for permission. Just start."
Biography
Boyan Slat is a Dutch inventor and environmental entrepreneur who founded The Ocean Cleanup at 18, developing innovative technology to remove plastic from oceans and rivers. His ambitious vision combines engineering with environmental stewardship, attracting global support and funding to scale cleanup operations worldwide. He exemplifies how young visionaries can mobilize resources and inspire action on planetaryscale challenges.
Key Facts
- Founded The Ocean Cleanup in 2013 after a diving trip in Greece inspired him to address ocean plastic pollution
- Designed the System 001, a passive cleanup technology that uses ocean currents to collect plastic without harming marine life
- Raised over $60 million in funding from governments, foundations, and private investors for cleanup operations
- Expanded operations to rivers through The River Cleanup initiative, tackling plastic at the source
- Recognized as one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2023
Teen inventor launches global mission to clean Earth's oceans—and actually makes progress.
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