Bureo's Wave of Change: Transforming Fishing Nets into Action

Transforming Ocean Waste into Rolling Waves of Change: The Bureo Story

Bureo’s Wave of Change

In 2018, a trio of friends in Santiago, Chile, faced the global crisis of plastic pollution head-on. Witnessing the devastating impact of discarded fishing gear on marine life, they founded Bureo Inc., an innovative company with a mission to not just clean the oceans but also inspire change. At the heart of their initiative was the ‘Net Positiva’ program, a groundbreaking solution to the urgent problem of ghost gear – abandoned fishing nets that account for approximately 10% of all ocean waste.

Ghost gear poses a severe threat to marine ecosystems, entangling millions of marine animals annually. Bureo recognized this challenge and initiated the ‘Net Positiva’ program to address the harmful impacts of abandoned fishing gear on the oceans.

Driven by their commitment to reducing plastic waste entering the ocean, Bureo started plastic waste collection programs. This evolved into Bureo Inc., a company dedicated to recycling plastic waste into innovative products. Their approach was unique – profits from these products would sustain ongoing waste collection programs.

Faced with the complex issue of polymer-based pollution in the ocean, Bureo identified a critical gap in the proper disposal of waste fishing nets. Teaming up with the Chilean government through the Start-Up Chile program, they launched ‘Net Positiva,’ the country’s first fishing net collection and recycling initiative. Fishermen were provided with eco-friendly disposal points, while Bureo gained access to highly recyclable materials.

Bureo’s first product was a cruiser skateboard deck crafted from recycled fishing nets. These innovative boards, manufactured in Chile, not only offered riders a unique skating experience but also played a crucial role in marine conservation. Each board produced helped remove over 30 square feet of fishing nets from the ocean, supporting Chilean fishing communities in the process.

The skateboards, priced at $65 for decks and $149 for a complete setup, became a symbol of conscious consumerism. Bureo strategically distributed them through their online store and various retailers, making their mark on four continents.

Bureo’s Net Positiva campaign, launched with support from the Chilean Government, WWF, and MCAF, gained momentum through crowdfunding, raising over $64,000 for their inaugural Minnow Skateboard production run. In the first year of Net Positiva, they collected and recycled over 10,000 kilograms of fishing nets, creating a shared value model that not only cleans the oceans but also generates local employment opportunities.

Headquartered in California, Bureo’s operations extend to Chile, where their team is actively involved. Their impactful work led to collaboration with Patagonia’s $20 Million and Change Fund, highlighting their commitment to environmental stewardship.

Turning ‘Ghost Gear’ Fishing Nets Into Skateboards

Bureo’s journey highlighted crucial lessons for sustainable initiatives. Communicating the importance of material use and recycling early on was vital. They emphasized the need to place value on materials to establish a structured recycling system. Overcoming challenges like material consistency and transport costs early in the process was imperative.

In building a young company, Bureo learned the value of a network of experienced advisors who shared their passion. Establishing strong connections with those who understood their mission proved instrumental.

Bureo’s transformation of discarded fishing nets into skateboards is more than a business venture; it’s a call to action. By following their passion for the ocean, the Bureo team has created a model that empowers consumers to make a difference while indulging in something they love. As they continue to ride the wave of change, Bureo sets an inspiring example of how innovative solutions can emerge from the depths of environmental challenges.

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