Prada, the renowned Italian luxury label, is strengthening its efforts in ocean protection by increasing its financial support for the Sea Beyond project. Launched in collaboration with Unesco’s Inter-governmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) in 2019, the initiative aims to expand our understanding of the oceans. Prada will now donate 1% of the revenue from sales of its Re-Nylon collection to the project over the next two years.
The Prada Re-Nylon collection features the brand’s iconic black nylon products, which are made using recycled yarn derived from plastic waste. This includes materials like carpet scraps and fishing nets collected from the ocean. The collection, which offers ready-to-wear, handbags, and footwear made from 100% recycled nylon, contributes significantly to Prada’s overall revenue.
The announcement of increased support for the Sea Beyond project took place during a conference at Unesco’s Paris headquarters. Lorenzo Bertelli, the head of CSR at the Prada group, made the announcement during the IOC’s general assembly. The goal of Sea Beyond, according to Prada, is to raise awareness and educate people about the preservation of the sea and its resources. Emphasizing the importance of protecting the planet’s waters from plastic pollution is a key focus of the program. Sea Beyond aims to engage students worldwide, encouraging them to develop an ecological conscience by learning about the challenges faced by the oceans.
Sea Beyond has already involved 600 students and 120 children from 15 countries in its initial two editions. The program includes classroom sessions and workshops tailored for younger children. Francesca Santoro, who oversees Unesco’s Ocean Education program, is eager to reach even more individuals and countries during the upcoming third edition. Santoro also expressed the goal of integrating these educational programs into school curricula and gaining recognition from governments.
Prada’s commitment to ocean protection extends beyond education. The brand plans to enhance the educational aspect of the program and expand its support to include scientific research and humanitarian projects. Prada will continue targeting younger children and launch the third edition of Sea Beyond, while also assisting in establishing an ocean awareness center in Venice that caters to people of all ages.
In preparation for the UN Ocean Conference in 2025, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, Prada and the IOC will organize a preparatory forum in Venice in 2024. Prada will also support existing educational structures and acquire methodologies to measure progress in raising awareness among younger children and the general public. In terms of scientific research, Prada will fund the final phase of a project led by Italian biologist Giovanni Chimienti, who studies deep-sea marine organisms. Additionally, Prada will collaborate with the French charity Bibliothèques Sans Frontières (Libraries without Borders) to create ocean-themed content for underprivileged children.
Prada’s increased commitment to ocean protection through the Sea Beyond project showcases the brand’s dedication to environmental sustainability and education. By supporting scientific research, initiatives for underprivileged children, and raising awareness through educational programs, Prada aims to make a significant impact in safeguarding the oceans and preserving our planet’s resources.
Useful links:
1. Unesco’s Sea Beyond Project
2. Prada’s Donation to Sea Beyond Project
