There is this notion that is quite popular in the environmental scene that every little bit helps, or 'Think global, act local.' I disagree with that. I think you have to start with how big the solution needs to be to solve the problem and then reason backward from there.

In this quote, Boyan Slat, a Dutch inventor and environmental activist known for his work on ocean cleanup, challenges a popular belief in the environmental movement: that small, individual actions can add up to make a significant impact. The phrase "Think global, act local" suggests that individuals should start with small actions in their local communities, assuming these will collectively contribute to solving larger global problems like environmental degradation. Slat, however, disagrees with this approach, advocating for a more strategic and systemic solution.

Slat argues that in order to address global challenges, such as pollution or climate change, one must first assess the scale of the problem and then determine the size of the solution required to effectively tackle it. He suggests that by understanding the magnitude of the problem, solutions should be designed to match that scale. This implies that addressing complex issues may require large-scale, innovative solutions, rather than incremental actions that might not have the necessary impact.

The idea of reasoning backward from the scale of the solution encourages a more holistic and scientific approach to environmental problems. Instead of focusing on smaller actions, Slat believes in devising solutions that can make a real difference on a global scale. This could involve leveraging technology, policy change, or large collaborative efforts to address the root causes of environmental destruction.

Slat’s viewpoint reflects his experience with large projects like The Ocean Cleanup, which aim to directly tackle ocean pollution through technology that is capable of addressing the problem on a massive scale. His perspective encourages a shift in mindset, emphasizing that true change requires solutions that are as ambitious and far-reaching as the problems they seek to solve.