Environmental leaders to be honored at Plastic Ocean Project Gala in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Plastic Ocean Project will host its 5th Annual “For the Ocean Gala” on Saturday, April 25, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center. The evening will feature live music, food, drinks, and both silent and live auctions to support the organization’s work.

This year’s gala will honor Captain Charles Moore and Ralph Chami, two figures known globally for their contributions to environmental awareness and ocean conservation.

Moore is widely recognized for discovering the Great Pacific Garbage Patch in 1997, a finding that helped bring international attention to the growing crisis of plastic pollution. In 2009, he partnered with Plastic Ocean Project founder Bonnie Monteleone on a research expedition across the North Pacific, generating early data on microplastics and their impact on marine ecosystems and the food chain.

He later founded the Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research in Long Beach, California, which now collaborates with Plastic Ocean Project on studies examining plastic contamination in drinking water and its broader environmental and health effects.

Chami, a former senior economist at the International Monetary Fund, has gained recognition for his work connecting environmental conservation with economic policy. His widely viewed TED Talk, “What a Living Whale is Worth,” argues for incorporating the value of ecosystems into global financial systems. He has also presented at multiple United Nations climate conferences and is part of a group of “Planetary Guardians” alongside notable figures such as Sylvia Earle and Jane Goodall.

POP Interim Director Tricia Monteleone said organizers were thrilled both honorees will attend the event in person.

“Each one is the epitome of a ‘force for good,’” Monteleone said. “Having them both here together is exciting.”

In addition to the awards presentation, guests can expect live music from the Brunswick Big Band, along with appetizers, desserts, and opportunities to support the nonprofit through auction items.

Proceeds from the gala will benefit Plastic Ocean Project’s ongoing efforts to address plastic pollution and promote environmental education in the Wilmington area and beyond.

More information about the event and tickets is available on the organization’s website.