Partner Spotlight: Investing in Impact – DWS and the Future of Ocean Conservation
Simone Brandes from DWS on biodiversity, shipwreck cleanups, and turning corporate responsibility into ocean action
Healthy Seas thrives on the strength of our partnerships—especially when they go beyond funding and evolve into long-term collaboration and shared purpose. In this edition of our Partner Spotlight series, we hear from Simone Brandes, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at DWS, one of Europe’s leading asset managers and a key partner in several of our most meaningful ocean conservation projects.
DWS partnership with Healthy Seas is a prime example of how the financial sector can support hands-on, science-driven conservation—while also driving awareness and accountability within the industry and beyond.
In addition to project funding, the DWS x Healthy Seas partnership places strong emphasis on employee engagement. Across the globe, DWS employees have participated in cleanup events and educational initiatives, supported by a network of trained DWS ambassadors. These ambassadors work with Healthy Seas to bring ocean conservation into the heart of corporate culture—and even into classrooms.
From supporting the purchase of our first boat, MAKO, to funding historic shipwreck cleanups and our most recent biodiversity-focused scientific mission in the Mediterranean, DWS has shown how investing in the planet can be direct, measurable, and inspiring.
We asked Simone to share some personal insights into what ocean conservation means to her—and why this work matters.
Q&A with Simone Brandes, Head of CSR at DWS
Tell us briefly about your organisation.
DWS Group (DWS), with €1,010 billion of total assets under management (as of 31 March 2025), is a leading European asset manager with global reach. With approximately 4,700 employees worldwide, DWS offers individuals, institutions, and large corporations access to investment solutions and tailored portfolios across a full spectrum of disciplines.
What does the ocean mean to you personally?
To me, the ocean represents endless expanses and the deep connection between continents. It also holds a rich world of underwater biodiversity that must be preserved—because without it, life as we know it would not exist.
Which is your favourite place on Earth? And why?
Europe. I love that it brings together so many countries, cultures, landscapes, and histories. Diversity is everywhere, and it’s beautiful.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about marine pollution?
That the oceans contain more microfibers from clothing than plastic straws. The media often focuses on visible items like straws and bags, but microfibers from synthetic clothing—such as polyester—make up a much larger portion of ocean microplastic pollution.
What’s the most memorable thing you have experienced with or thanks to Healthy Seas?
Definitely when Healthy Seas was able to purchase its first boat, MAKO, in 2021—with the support of DWS. Seeing MAKO in action today is a proud reminder of what we can achieve together.
If you could send one message to the world about ocean conservation, what would it be?
Less plastic—urgently and everywhere.
What’s the most incredible transformation you’ve seen as a result of ocean cleanup efforts?
I was deeply impressed by our 2024 project with Healthy Seas: a shipwreck in the Mediterranean was completely cleared of ghost nets. The transformation was extraordinary. I was also moved by the impact of Healthy Seas’ work on the island of Ithaca. It showed how cleanup, and awareness can truly reach communities.
How has your work with Healthy Seas changed your perspective on sustainability?
It has shown me how effective awareness-raising can be when it’s organized and local. Healthy Seas does an outstanding job of activating communities and inspiring people in different regions to get involved.
If you could solve one ocean-related issue instantly, what would it be?
Microplastics. We need to address this invisible threat before it becomes even more unmanageable.
DWS x Healthy Seas: Investing in a Healthier Ocean
DWS is more than a supporting partner—they’re part of our story. With their support, we’ve launched some of our most ambitious initiatives, including the purchase of MAKO, the 2024 cleanup of some historical Mediterranean shipwreck, and our ongoing 2025 scientific mission that investigates the biodiversity impact of ghost nets and the effects of their removal.
This long-term partnership demonstrates how corporate responsibility can be hands-on, innovative, and truly global—empowering both ecological restoration and public awareness.
Join the Movement
Are you looking for a way to bring your company’s values to life? Healthy Seas works with partners across industries to build real-world impact—from cleanups to education to circular product stories.
Let’s make waves together. Reach out to explore what your business can do.
Want to meet more of our partners?
Check out past spotlights with Hyundai, Friedmans, and Aquafil.
