Empowering Communities and Protecting Our Oceans

In today’s world, where sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, we at Tide Ocean SA are proud to have set strict standards for social and environmental impact. Our mission revolves around transforming ocean-bound plastic waste into high-quality recycled materials, while also empowering communities around the globe.

At the heart of our mission are the people who bring it to life. That’s why we created the Voices of #tide series, which gives a platform to the individuals working on the frontlines of plastic pollution. This series features testimonials from workers and collectors in Thailand, highlighting their experiences and vital roles in protecting our oceans.

Turning the Tide on Plastic Pollution

Each year, millions of tons of plastic enter our oceans, endangering marine life and threatening the health of our ecosystems. We have taken on the mission of turning this crisis into a powerful opportunity. By collecting ocean-bound plastic waste from some of the most affected coastal areas, we transform discarded materials into #tide ocean material®—a high-quality recycled raw material utilized by brands worldwide to create sustainable products.

However, the true impact of our work extends far beyond environmental conservation. We believe that protecting our oceans goes hand in hand with supporting the communities that depend on them.

Empowering Coastal Communities

At the heart of our social impact strategy is our commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities. Through partnerships with local organizations in Southeast Asia and Latin America, we have established collection networks that not only clean up beaches and waterways but also provide stable employment, fair wages and additional income streams for local workers. By creating job opportunities in areas where income can be scarce, we are helping families build better futures and fostering economic resilience.

For many workers, participating in our collection model is a life-changing experience. It offers not only a reliable source of income but also a sense of purpose—knowing they are directly contributing to the protection of their environment. In regions often hit hardest by plastic pollution, our initiatives empower communities to take control of their resources and restore the natural beauty of their coastlines.

Voices of #tide

It is important to us to give a voice to the people working on the frontlines of this problem. That's why we created the Voices of #tide series, which features testimonials from workers and collectors in Thailand. In these episodes, they talk about their experiences and their role in the fight against plastic pollution.

In this series, our project coordinator in Thailand, Lalita Meekaew (Naa), talks about the Moken people: an indigenous ethnic group who traditionally live as semi-nomadic seafarers in the Andaman Sea, mainly along the coasts and islands of Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. Known as "sea gypsies" or "sea nomads," they have historically relied on the sea for their livelihood, practicing a hunter-gatherer lifestyle centered on fishing, free diving, and foraging. Unfortunately, environmental factors such as global warming and the increasing scarcity of fish in the ocean have made it difficult for them to maintain their traditional customs. Naa talks about the Moken way of life and how plastic pollution has affected their lives.

Education and Awareness

Beyond our direct impact on the environment and communities, we are also dedicated to raising awareness about the urgent need to protect our oceans. By partnering with educational institutions, NGOs, we conduct workshops and awareness campaigns to inspire individuals to take action against plastic pollution. Our initiatives aim to shift mindsets and cultivate a new generation of environmental stewards who understand the value of a sustainable future.

Collaborating for a Greater Impact

We recognize that meaningful change cannot happen in isolation. That’s why we collaborate with a diverse network of partners, including NGOs, and global brands, to scale our impact. By leveraging the strengths of our partners, we are able to expand our reach and address the root causes of plastic pollution at a systemic level.

Through these strategic partnerships, we are also advocating for policy changes that prioritize ocean protection and support the transition to a circular economy. By sharing knowledge and resources, we are working to lead a movement toward a more sustainable and socially inclusive world.

The Ripple Effect of Social Responsibility

At our core, our mission is about more than just cleaning up our oceans—it’s about creating a ripple effect that transforms lives, industries, and the environment. By empowering communities, fostering sustainable practices, and championing circularity, we are proving that businesses can be a force for good in the world.

In a time when sustainability is often treated as a buzzword, we want to lead by example and inspire other businesses to create authentic social impact. Our holistic approach to environmental and social responsibility serves as a reminder that when we invest in our planet and its people, we are truly investing in a brighter future for all.