An integrated systems approach
The “Wad Gaat Om” program focuses on reducing plastic pollution in the Wadden Sea region—on the coast, in the water, and on the islands—through a circular approach. The focus is on reuse, natural materials, and system change. Governments, businesses, nature organizations, educational institutions, designers, visitors, and residents are joining forces to work together towards a Wadden region with less plastic pollution.

The program will run for four years and will operate from two approaches:
• Curative: cleaning up existing plastic pollution.
• Preventive: preventing new plastic from entering the Wadden region.

The goal is to develop an approach that can also be applied in other areas with similar problems. Therefore, we are jointly focusing on prevention, cleanup, offering healthy alternatives, establishing circular chains, and encouraging behavioral change. This is how we can truly close the loop.

Ambition: A plastic-pollution-free Wadden Sea area (UNESCO Wadden Sea World Heritage Site) with plenty of opportunities for a new, sustainable economy and society.

Goal: “Wad Gaat Om” (The Wadden Sea Changes) advocates a systems approach that tackles the plastic problem comprehensively. The program organizes a collective with sufficient capacity to advance the cause. “Wad Gaat Om” develops an effective, replicable method that can be used worldwide and serve as a model. This method will be implemented in the Wadden Sea region through the program.