Waterhaul’s Vision: How Two Entrepreneurs Turned Ocean Waste into £2 Million Business

Turning the Tide: Duo Transforms Plastic Waste into Sunglasses, Eyeing Global Impact

In a remarkable entrepreneurial journey, Harry Dennis and Gavin Parker, avid surfing fans from Newquay, Cornwall, have turned the tide on ocean plastic pollution.

By converting used Covid face masks and dumped fishing nets into 25,000 pairs of sunglasses, they’ve not only earned £2 million but also embarked on a mission to make a lasting impact on the environment.

From Waste to Waves: Entrepreneurs Make £2 Million Turning Ocean Plastic into Sunglasses

The dynamic duo’s journey began when they witnessed local beaches strewn with plastic waste, including fishing ropes, nets, pots, and traps.

Determined to address the issue of “ghost gear” and its devastating impact on marine life, Dennis and Parker took a bold step—quitting their jobs and investing their savings in transforming super-strong plastic waste into sunglasses frames.

Waterhaul’s Vision: How Two Entrepreneurs Turned Ocean Waste into £2 Million Business

Their company, Waterhaul, not only succeeded in turning discarded plastic into stylish sunglasses, selling them for £61.85 to £95 each, but it also played a pivotal role in changing practices in both the fishing and eyewear industries. The duo’s innovative approach not only combats pollution but also contributes to protecting fish stocks and saving NHS money.

Sustainable Success: Entrepreneurs Turn Discarded Plastic into Stylish Sunglasses

Fishing gear, especially lines and nets, poses a significant threat to marine life, even after being discarded. Recognizing the devastating impact, Dennis and Parker realized the strength of the discarded plastic made it an ideal material for sunglasses frames.

Their gamble paid off, with 25,000 pairs sold, and they are now seeking investors to expand their mission.

Riding the Wave of Change: Duo Converts Ocean Plastic into Sunglasses, Aiming for Global Expansion

Waterhaul’s success story is not just limited to the UK. The entrepreneurial duo is aiming higher, seeking Dragons’ Den-style investors to collect discarded fishing gear not only across Britain but also in Africa. Their vision extends beyond a business venture—it’s a commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale.

Environmental Entrepreneurs: Duo Turns Ocean Waste into Sunglasses, Hits £2 Million Milestone

In an effort to tackle the plastic devastation caused by obsolete fishing gear, the partners at Waterhaul are not only providing a sustainable solution but also paying for the unwanted gear.

Their income has already surpassed £2 million, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Waterhaul’s Journey: Transforming Plastic Waste into Sunglasses and Beyond

The journey of Waterhaul, from quitting jobs to transforming plastic waste into sunglasses, reflects the power of innovation and determination. The entrepreneurs are not stopping at sunglasses; they’ve ventured into creating litter pickers from face masks and collaborating on schemes beyond Cornwall, including a pilot project in Ghana.

Sunglasses with a Purpose: Entrepreneurs Turn Plastic Pollution into a £2 Million Business

Waterhaul’s success is a testament to the potential for businesses with a purpose. The sunglasses, made from discarded plastic, not only replace single-use frames but also deploy tougher scratch-resistant mineral glass lenses. This environmentally conscious approach challenges outdated practices in the eyewear industry.

Beyond the Horizon: Entrepreneurs Turn Plastic Waste into Sunglasses, Eyeing Investment

As Waterhaul aims to raise investment and employ more people, the potential for their sunglasses is eye-watering.

With the eyewear market estimated at £4.4 billion in the UK alone, the duo sees vast opportunities to make a significant impact on both the industry and the environment.

Waterhaul’s Impact: How Duo Turns Fishing Gear and Face Masks into Sunglasses

Waterhaul’s impact goes beyond creating fashionable sunglasses—it extends to changing industry practices and collaborating on environmental initiatives.

The duo’s commitment to sustainability and their pilot scheme in Ghana, in collaboration with the Environmental Justice Foundation, exemplifies their dedication to creating positive change around the world.