Beached inflatable animals implore vacationers to keep the ocean afloat

[Orange]

 

Sun, sea, and... saggy sea creatures? As Brits flock to their summer getaways, a new campaign seeks to make waves by highlighting an unexpected marine menace: abandoned inflatables.

 

Thomas Cook and the Marine Conservation Society have joined forces to tackle the growing problem of discarded pool toys polluting our oceans. The eye-catching Deflatables campaign, inflated to life by advertising agency McCann Birmingham, features striking images of marine animals reimagined as half-deflated inflatables washed up on the shore. These poignant visuals serve as a stark reminder of the environmental toll our vacationing habits can take.

 

 

These forgotten floats pose a serious threat to marine life and ecosystems, contributing to the already alarming levels of plastic pollution in our oceans.

 

A recent survey commissioned by YourSayPays on behalf of Thomas Cook sheds light on holidaymakers’ inflatable habits. The study revealed that over a third of travelers (37%) purchase inflatables for their trips. However, less than half (47%) of those surveyed said they would consider reusing or recycling their pool toys after their vacation.

 

 

The Deflatables campaign aims to make a splash in public consciousness, encouraging both travelers and hotels to take action. By promoting responsible disposal and providing appropriate recycling facilities, the initiative hopes to stem the tide of inflatable waste. As we pack our bags for sun-soaked adventures, this campaign reminds us that our holiday choices can have far-reaching consequences for the planet's delicate marine ecosystems.

 

• https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/marine-conservation-society-europe-london-city-b2591117.html 
• https://www.lbbonline.com/news/thomas-cook-encourages-holiday-makers-to-reduce-reuse-or-recycle-inflatables 
• https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mccann-birmingham_truthwelltold-activity-7226251918073868290-Od54 

 

 

Images: McCann Birmingham