4ocean Challenges Eckerd College Students to Cut Plastic

More than 140 people attended "An Evening with 4ocean" at Eckerd College on April 2, where the nonprofit asked attendees to pledge reducing single-use plastic consumption.

Bill Toomey, head of sustainability partnerships at 4ocean and parent of an Eckerd graduate, presented the company's work removing plastic from waterways. For each pledge signed, 4ocean committed to removing one pound of plastic.

Students tracking their progress through April using the Remora app—developed by Reduce Single-use at Eckerd College—log instances where they refuse single-use items. Five Eckerd students participating in the challenge will receive prizes at month's end.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Marketing Nina Bergbrant organized the event through her Reflective Service Learning courses. She said the presentation illustrated how businesses use storytelling to build awareness about environmental issues and drive action.

Attendees received reusable items including a cotton tote, insulated tumbler, utensil set, and 4ocean bracelet. Isabella Spanos, a junior marine science student, said the event spanned business, sustainability, and marine science disciplines.