Dear Friends of 5 Gyres,

2025 marks 15 years since we launched The 5 Gyres Institute with a bold mission: to stop the flow of plastic pollution at its source. What began as a series of oceanic expeditions to document plastic in the world’s oceans has since grown into a global movement grounded in science, advocacy, and community, one that has become a powerful force for change.

Together, with a network of ambassadors, supporters, and key partners, we’ve helped to transform how the world understands plastic pollution. We’ve published groundbreaking research, worked collaboratively to pass strong legislation, built community-led coalitions, engaged thousands of ambassadors, and helped shift public perception. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, inspired by the incredible team behind it all, and deeply grateful to each of you who have been part of this journey.

Today, I’m writing to share an important milestone, both personally and for the future of 5 Gyres. After a decade serving as Executive Director and 15 years since Marcus and I co-founded this organization, I’m beginning the process of transitioning out of my role. Our team and Board will work together to find our next Executive Director to lead us forward and shepherd the next 15 years of driving solutions to plastic pollution.

Marcus and I will never say goodbye completely, as we both remain fully committed to 5 Gyres’ mission and future. But I believe deeply in the power of change, even when it’s challenging, and this moment presents an opportunity to welcome fresh leadership to guide us into the next chapter.

Our work is evolving. We’re continuing to move further upstream, from ocean plastic research to identifying sources and addressing the root causes of microplastic pollution. Our research and advocacy efforts are focused on high-impact sectors, like reducing microfiber emissions from textiles and vetting alternatives to plastic packaging. Through our community science program, TrashBlitz, we’re gathering valuable data on the worst plastic offenders in communities and throughout our Federal lands, including brand data that can point to which corporations must be held accountable. At the same time, we’re strengthening relationships with local, state and federal decision makers, putting 5 Gyres at the forefront of driving impactful policies.

As we begin the search for our next Executive Director, we are looking for a leader who can carry this vision forward, someone who shares our urgency, creativity, and commitment to justice. It feels like a fitting time for us to make this transition now, as negotiations for a UN Global Plastics Treaty have failed, and the importance of our work locally and nationally has never been greater. Despite the failures of the treaty process, to see the issue of plastics rise from a nascent, seemingly niche issue just a few decades ago, to taking center stage on the global agenda is a testament to the work we have all driven together.

This transition is a big moment for me, and for 5 Gyres. But it is also a celebration of growth, and the possibilities that emerge when science meets action. I hope you’ll join us in the coming months as we reflect on this journey, honor the community that has shaped it - including so many of you and look toward a future where plastic no longer pollutes our planet or our bodies.

With gratitude and hope,

Anna Cummins

Executive Director and Co-Founder

P.S. You’re invited to 5 Gyres’ 15 year anniversary celebration! Please consider grabbing a ticket to join us or donating $15 today to support our 15 years of fighting plastic pollution together.