HarmonyVote

Initiative Title: Global Ocean Cleanup and Pollution Prevention Act (V2)

Description:

1. Continuation of Single-Use Plastics Ban:
   Reinforces the phased global ban on plastic bags, straws, microbeads, and other non-biodegradable single-use plastics with a 5-year transition window tailored to each country's development level.

2. Global Ocean Cleanup Operations:
   Establish a network of ocean cleanup campaigns using technologies such as autonomous drones, floating booms, and AI-powered trash collection vessels, focusing on high-impact zones like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and coastal dump zones.

3. Chemical Waste Monitoring and Remediation:
   Develop international protocols and partnerships for detecting and cleaning up toxic chemical spills and legacy pollutants such as mercury, PCBs, and oil residues in marine environments.

4. Pollution Source Regulation:
   Enforce stricter controls on industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and maritime pollution (e.g., ballast water, oil leaks) via national legislation and regional treaties.

5. Global Marine Restoration Fund:
   Establish a dedicated fund to finance ocean cleanup initiatives, habitat restoration, and support for coastal communities affected by pollution. Funded by environmental levies on polluting industries and international contributions.

6. Marine Protected Zones Expansion:
   Increase the size and number of marine protected areas (MPAs) worldwide, particularly around vulnerable coral reefs, mangroves, and estuaries. These MPAs will also serve as chemical and plastic pollution recovery zones.

7. Community-Led Coastal Cleanup Incentives:
   Support grassroots efforts and reward local communities for participating in cleanup and recycling programs, including grant funding, tourism credits, and educational initiatives.

8. Scientific Research and Innovation Grants:
   Provide funding for marine research institutions focused on developing biodegradable materials, improving detection and filtration technologies, and monitoring ecosystem recovery.

9. International Reporting and Compliance:
   Launch an intergovernmental panel to oversee pollution tracking, publish annual reports, and enforce compliance through international law and trade agreements.

Possible Outcomes and Implications:

• Drastic Reduction in Ocean Waste: Tangible removal of plastics and chemicals from oceans, leading to healthier marine life and clearer waters.
• Marine Biodiversity Recovery: Improved conditions for coral reefs, fish stocks, and endangered species.
• Global Awareness and Engagement: Mobilizes citizens, scientists, and businesses toward a shared environmental mission.
• Economic Revitalization: Creates jobs in green tech, marine sciences, and eco-tourism, while preserving long-term food security from the sea.
• Global Equity in Environmental Responsibility: Ensures both developed and developing nations contribute to and benefit from a cleaner planet.

Votes: