Maritime Industry Briefing: Sustainability Initiatives, Edible Food Recovery Grants

## Maritime Industry Briefing: Sustainability Initiatives, Edible Food Recovery Grants ### BE OPEN Celebrates Youth Contributions to Sustainable Change BE OPEN, a creative think tank, had the opportunity to present its sustainability-focused competition program during the World Sustainable Energy Day (WSED) event. The organization praised young people for their contributions to driving sustainable change. 'BE OPEN was proud to support the International Student Energy Summit (SES), the world's largest and most diverse energy event for youth,' said a BE OPEN spokesperson. 'From February 18-21, 2026, the summit was held in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, bringing together students from around the globe to discuss the future of energy.' ### OC Waste & Recycling Announces $6M in Edible Food Recovery Grants In other sustainability news, OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR) in Orange County, California is now accepting applications for its Regional Recycling and Edible Food Recovery Grant program. The competitive five-year grant will provide up to $500,000 per recipient to support sustainable food recovery initiatives in the region. 'This grant funding will help establish long-term, regional edible food recovery programs to reduce food waste and provide meals to those in need,' said an OCWR spokesperson, according to a press release. 'We're excited to partner with organizations committed to sustainable food systems.' The maritime industry has increasingly focused on environmental sustainability in recent years, from reducing emissions to promoting circular economies. These latest initiatives demonstrate the sector's commitment to driving positive change through youth engagement and food waste reduction efforts.