In 2018, thousands of pounds of garbage were collected from the waters of Madeira Island by locals, particularly fishermen, during a clean-up campaign organised by the regional government.

A small portion of the plastic waste was recycled by Bordalo II to create the bright-colored “Plastic Mero” (Plastic Grouper) sculpture.

The sculpture aims, both through the material used, plastic, and through the representation of one of the most emblematic species of the protected areas - the Atlantic goliath grouper - to alert and raise awareness among the various generations to adopt new behaviours, particularly with regard to reuse , as well as reducing waste and the use of plastic, which is so harmful to marine biodiversity. It was made with the same type of materials that are partly to blame for its annihilation. Through his work, the environmental artist wants to remind viewers of how overconsumption leads to littered oceans with debris harming marine life.