At 85, biologist and a pioneer of environmental engineering, John Todd, has presented an ambitious plan that could change how polluted seas are cleaned. He proposes a fleet of eco-craft capable of cleaning contaminated marine waters on site, without chemicals and with a minimal carbon footprint.
These boats would use solar and wind energy, making them fully autonomous and environmentally friendly. The concept is based on the “eco-machine” idea first put into practice by Todd in 1986 at a landfill in Haraviche. Back then, using specially selected ecosystems, he managed to turn toxic water into water suitable for drinking.
Now Todd believes the system he proposes would cut the cost of cleaning the oceans by 75% compared with traditional methods. In addition, the boats would be able to operate in the most hard-to-reach and heavily polluted areas.
Todd’s projects have repeatedly sparked debate in the scientific community, but his persistence and belief in nature have inspired new generations of environmentalists. His approach is built on a symbiosis of science and nature, with the goal of restoring ecosystems without harming the environment. Todd believes that humanity has what it takes to correct the mistakes of the past.
