Joanna Toole Award (2025) - Instituto Ecomar (Marulho) (Brazil)
Project Summary
Marulho, a social business based in Brazil, is leading the charge in the country against ghost gear while empowering coastal communities. Through education, creative reuse, and community storytelling, Marulho is turning marine waste into opportunity. They are protecting the ocean while strengthening coastal livelihoods. In 2025, funding from the GGGI small grants program helped to support Marulho’s collection of more than 18 tons of end-of-life fishing nets, which were repurposed into more than 13,000 products that could be sold to generate income for community members. In addition to directly involving community members in environmental education, beach cleanups, and educational workshops, this work directly supported income generation activities for 27 families.
