Project Planet Earth's Story
Project Planet Earth started with Oly Rush… and a trip to a remote cove in 2018. At the time, Oly was working long days as a plasterer and spending his evenings renovating his home. Stressed, exhausted, and close to burnout, he took a rare day off to go surfing. There was no surf that day, but what he found instead was something much greater: a calling to fight plastic pollution.
What began as a personal turning point has since grown into a powerful movement for change. Over six years later, Oly continues to pour his heart into the fight against plastic pollution. From organising countless beach cleans and speaking in local schools to braving extreme swims, every action he takes is driven by a deep commitment to protecting our oceans. His unwavering passion and infectious spirit have moved many, inspiring a wave of people and organisations to stand beside him and support his mission.
Today, Oly is supported by a team of trustees and ambassadors who share his deep commitment to Project Planet Earth and are equally passionate about protecting our planet.
“Looking back today, that day for me, was the turning point, it was the point in my life when I realised the true extent of the damage we were causing to the planet, by living the ‘normal’ lives we live. Also the damage I was causing to myself, living at 100 miles an hour.”