The #TeamTrees sequel that raised $30 million to remove 30 million pounds of trash from oceans and rivers.
Ocean Cleanup Campaign
Launched October 29, 2021, by MrBeast and Mark Rober, #TeamSeas followed the #TeamTrees formula: $1 removes one pound of trash via Ocean Conservancy and The Ocean Cleanup. YouTube creators rallied again. The campaign addressed plastic pollution—8 million tons enter oceans annually. Donations funded river cleanup (preventing ocean entry) and coastal cleanup operations.
Reaching the Goal
#TeamSeas hit its $30 million goal by January 1, 2022. Major donors included YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki ($100,000) and thousands of small contributions. The campaign removed trash from rivers in Guatemala, Indonesia, and Jamaica, plus beach cleanups worldwide. Unlike tree planting’s decades-long timeline, ocean cleanup offered more immediate visible impact.
Environmental Impact Debates
Critics noted $30 million removes a tiny fraction of annual ocean plastic (0.375%). Systemic solutions—reducing plastic production, improving waste infrastructure—needed policy changes corporations and governments resisted. But #TeamSeas raised awareness and proved repeat internet fundraising success. The campaigns showed Gen Z/Millennial environmental activism merging with creator economy philanthropy.
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