"Wasted Waters” explores the effects of plastic waste on a remote island in Bahia, the northeast region of Brazil. The ocean dictates every aspect of life on the island. This secluded paradise offers a glimpse into a life previously unscathed by modern society and industrialization. The island is predominately made up of legacy fishermen who rely solely on what the waters provide. While the island offers a rich and untouched history, a dying culture of its fishermen and the waning preservation of the Candomblé religion burden it.
Lately, it has become a struggle for survival due to heavy waste pollution and overfishing by major corporations. Poor government regulation and a lack of education have allowed a river of trash to grow within the main river of the island, subsequently heaps of waste flow into the ocean daily.
Lifelong fishermen are forced to find new occupations or move off the island entirely, leading to a loss of culture and a death of tradition. The goal of my photographs is to raise awareness on the hazards of plastic waste to both marine and human life.
My work aims to start a conversation about ways to reduce our plastic use, educating people on how to live plastic-free, and showing the harmful effects plastic is actively having on our oceans, I hope people can live harmoniously and protect our waters for generations to come.