The Ocean Cleanup is making its U.S. debut by launching its first trash Interceptor Original, dubbed Interceptor 007, in California's Ballona Creek. Partnering with the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, the Dutch non-profit aims to tackle the estimated 60,000 pounds of trash annually dumped into the Pacific by the creek. The high-tech, solar-powered catamaran is designed to capture floating waste with its conveyor belt system, storing up to 13,200 gallons of trash before it's sent to a local processing facility. To date, the organization has removed over 239,000 pounds of trash from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and aims to eliminate 90% of floating ocean plastics by 2040.

The device will be operational for two storm seasons and is part of The Ocean Cleanup's larger strategy to remove plastics from waterways. The organization has other Interceptor Originals that have collectively removed over 3.5 million pounds of waste from rivers. The goal is far-reaching but practical: in five years, halt 80% of riverine plastic from ending up in the ocean.

Ballona Creek may not be the world's most polluted river, but rivers are significant contributors to ocean plastic pollution. Efforts to curb this are vital, especially considering the staggering size of marine trash accumulations like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

The Ocean Cleanup's efforts are an essential step in combating ocean pollution. Their technology has not only made substantial headway in cleaning up the oceans but also demonstrated that ambitious environmental goals are achievable. By capturing trash before it enters the ocean, the organization is contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.