Photo source: Ogyre official website
In support of global “Ocean Month” and the advancement of environmental sustainability, GlobalWafers’ Italian subsidiary, MEMC Electronic Materials S.p.A., is participating in the #OceanChallenge campaign launched by the Italian social enterprise Ogyre, supporting marine litter recovery and ecosystem conservation. We have recently initiated a two-year collaboration, through which we commit to an annual contribution of approximately €20,000. These resources are dedicated to reducing ocean plastic pollution, engaging local fishers in cleanup efforts, and promoting the restoration of marine biodiversity.
Building on the success of recycling over 14,000 kilograms of waste in 2024, this year we are setting an even more ambitious goal: to remove 28,000 kilograms of plastic waste from oceans around the world within a month. By combining corporate resources with the active participation of local fishers, the initiative addresses the growing threat of marine plastic pollution.
Ogyre is dedicated to promoting innovative models for environmental protection. Its “Waste Leakage Prevention” program seeks to stop plastic waste from reaching the ocean at its source while helping developing countries establish effective waste management systems. At the same time, its “Fishing for Litter” initiative encourages fishers to collect marine litter during regular fishing operations. The waste is then sorted and processed onshore, creating benefits both for ecological preservation and for maintaining sustainable livelihoods. This model has been successfully implemented in countries such as Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia, and has already led to the recovery of several hundred kilograms of marine debris.
By supporting this initiative, GlobalWafers’ Italian Subsidiary supports local fishers in integrating marine waste recovery into their daily routines. The company also ensures that all collected waste is properly sorted and treated, reflecting the Group’s commitment to environmental protection, community engagement, and sustainable resource management.
The marine conservation initiative not only helps improve the ecological environment but also brings positive economic value. Research shows that cleaning one kilometer of coastline can save approximately €8,170 in annual maintenance costs. In the Mediterranean region, it can also improve catch quality and operational safety, with estimated overall economic benefits reaching up to €4 million per year.
By supporting this initiative, GlobalWafers contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI):
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SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | By supporting fishers in marine cleanup efforts, the project creates local job opportunities and helps stabilize income. |
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SDG 14: Life Below Water | By reducing plastic pollution, it enhances marine habitats and protects biodiversity. |
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SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | The initiative strengthens collaboration with non-profit organizations and promotes cross-sector environmental action. |
As one of the world’s top three semiconductor wafer manufacturers, GlobalWafers believes that companies have a responsibility not only to lead in innovation and technology but also to respond proactively to environmental challenges and support the transition to sustainability. The Group encourages its global operations to implement diverse sustainability practices suited to local needs, from climate action to nature conservation, as part of its comprehensive ESG commitments.
Looking ahead, GlobalWafers will continue to integrate global resources, deepen collaboration with partners worldwide, and invest in sustainability actions that focus on biodiversity, carbon reduction, and resource circularity. The company remains committed to building a cleaner, more resilient, and sustainable future for all.