About Us
“Never doubt that a group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
“The time is always right to do what is right.” - Martin Luther King
The Environmental Cleanup Coalition (ECC) is a non-profit, non-governmental agency founded in 2008 with the mission of removing plastic trash from the North Pacific Gyre, revitalizing the marine environment and educating the public about the danger of plastic in the watershed. ECC is an independent environmental organization with 501(c)3 tax status, so all donations are tax deductible. ECC is jointly based out of Santa Cruz, California and Maui, Hawaii.
The Founder and Director of ECC is Richard Sundance Owen, a building contractor and SCUBA dive instructor whose love for the ocean and “can-do” attitude coalesced in the conception of the Gyre Cleanup Project. Owen’s determination and enthusiasm have been the backbone for a mission that some say is impossible but a growing number say is absolutely necessary. ECC is now a team of committed environmentalists who are combining their powers of networking and manifestation in the continued shaping of this project as it moves from conception to infancy and towards maturation. The ECC is growing and is ready for new involvement.
Please join the Environmental Cleanup Coalition’s Gyre Cleanup Project today. Your efforts are needed and will be appreciated.