Terms of Service

Agreement to Terms

By accessing or using TrashBlitz, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. TrashBlitz is provided by the 5 Gyres Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our service.

Description of Service

TrashBlitz is a data collection platform that enables users to document and track trash collected during cleanup events. The platform combines environmental cleanup with scientific research to support policy measures and solutions addressing plastic pollution.

User Accounts

To use certain features of TrashBlitz, you must create an account. You agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete information
• Maintain the security of your account credentials
• Notify us immediately of any unauthorized access
• Accept responsibility for all activities under your account

User Conduct

When using TrashBlitz, you agree not to:

• Submit false, misleading, or inaccurate data
• Upload inappropriate, offensive, or illegal content
• Attempt to interfere with or disrupt the service
• Use the service for any unlawful purpose
• Impersonate any person or entity
• Collect data about other users without consent

Data and Content

Your Content

You retain ownership of content you submit (photos, data entries). However, by submitting content to TrashBlitz, you grant 5 Gyres Institute a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, modify, and distribute your content for:

• Operating and improving the service
• Scientific research and publications
• Educational purposes
• Policy advocacy and public awareness

Data Accuracy

You are responsible for the accuracy of data you submit. TrashBlitz relies on user-submitted data for research purposes, and inaccurate data undermines our mission.

Intellectual Property

The TrashBlitz name, logo, website design, and original content are owned by 5 Gyres Institute and protected by intellectual property laws. You may not use our branding without written permission.

Safety Disclaimer

When participating in cleanup activities, you are responsible for your own safety. 5 Gyres Institute is not liable for any injuries or damages that may occur during cleanup events. Please:

• Wear appropriate protective equipment
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Do not handle hazardous materials
• Follow local laws and regulations
• Obtain necessary permissions for cleanup locations

Limitation of Liability

TrashBlitz is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind. To the fullest extent permitted by law, 5 Gyres Institute shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of the service.

Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your account at any time for violation of these terms or for any other reason at our discretion. You may also delete your account at any time by contacting us.

Changes to Terms

We may modify these Terms of Service at any time. We will notify users of significant changes by posting a notice on the service. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, United States, without regard to conflict of law principles.

Contact Us

If you have questions about these Terms of Service, please contact:

5 Gyres Institute
Email: info@5gyres.org
Website: www.5gyres.org