A new crew, and a small idea with big potential
We’re excited to welcome a new crew to our IN MOCEAN recycling fleet: Sonja and Niels, two sailors from Germany currently living aboard their boat SV MarySol with their two salty dogs, Yuki and Carlito. Since April 2023, they’ve been slowly navigating the world, driven by a passion for low-impact living and a solid commitment to cutting back plastic waste.
Before setting sail, Sonja ran two Zero Waste shops in Hamburg, so carrying their reusables is second nature for them—whether it’s for fresh veggies at the market or takeaway food on the go. That mindset now travels with them wherever the wind takes them.
Testing a low-cost plastic recycling setup
In the past, we’ve learned that launching small-scale recycling hubs during the short stays of our sailing crews can be a challenge. Finding partner organizations, importing machines, and providing deep training takes time—and that’s not always on our side.
So with Sonja and Niels, we’re testing a new approach: a simpler, more affordable entry point that still makes a meaningful difference. We sent them off with a low-cost plastic recycling setup for roughly 300 euros. Here’s what was in the box:
- A panini press to melt the plastic
- Teflon sheets
- Silicone gloves
- Heavy-duty & small scissors
- Pliers
- A multitool
- Glue
- Jewelry Making Components
- And a good dose of curiosity
The idea is to start small—with jewelry made from collected plastic waste. Earrings, keychains, and pendants can be taught quickly, made with minimal gear, and sold to travelers easily. It’s a quick win: fast feedback, local value, and a chance to spark something bigger.
Local collaboration, not top-down solutions
Sonja and Niels sailed up the Gambia River, and it didn’t take long before Sonja reported back: plastic pollution is omnipresent and heavy, while income opportunities are scarce. But what stood out was the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the local families—some of them running small-scale businesses of their own.
Instead of jumping in with a plan, Sonja spent time getting to know one family who showed real interest in exploring something new. She explained the idea, showed photos of the jewelry, and asked them to think it over. Only after they came back enthusiastic and with a clear vision of how to run it did we move forward.
This part is key for us: if the energy doesn’t come from within the community, it usually won’t last. We don’t show up with ready-made answers—we bring possibilities, tools, and support for those who want to shape their own version of the idea.
Building the micro-recycling workspace
When Sonja and Niels were back in Germany for a short visit, we put together the starter kit and sent it to them. On their return to The Gambia, they spent two days training the local family. From explaining plastic types and safe melting methods to making plastic sheets from bottle caps and cutting shapes—everything was covered.
They also delivered a small sign to place at a point of sale, telling the story behind each handmade piece. And to keep the connection going, they brought back a few phones from Germany—one now in the hands of Sally, the woman overseeing the workspace—so we can stay in touch and keep supporting from afar.
A simple start, with room to grow
The time frame was short—but sometimes, a small start is enough. Another fleet member will be visiting The Gambia in about six months, which opens up opportunities for follow-up training, bringing extra tools, and learning together what worked and what didn’t.
This was Sonja and Niels’ very first act after joining the IN MOCEAN fleet, and we’re incredibly grateful for their curiosity, patience, and thoughtful way of introducing this new model. It’s not about rushing change—it’s about opening doors, listening well, and making things possible with what’s at hand.
Want to start your own low-cost plastic recycling setup?
If this story sparked some ideas—or if you’ve been wondering how to turn your travels, your community work, or your small business into a plastic recycling solution that starts simple and grows organically—we’d love to hear from you.
Drop us a message, and we’ll happily jump on a call to explore what a starter kit could look like for you.
