SDG 14

Indicator 14.4.3

Sustainability and Stewardship

RUTS Policy to Reducing Marine Pollution

Reporters:	Dr. Chanyut Sudtongkong
	Miss. Kanokwan Juhong
	Miss. Hathaitip Tongdoung

October 11, 2024

Annually, over 300 million metric tons of plastic are produced for various applications, with at least 14 million metric tons entering marine environments. Plastic constitutes approximately 80% of marine debris, affecting ecosystems from surface waters to the deep seabed. Primary sources of oceanic plastic pollution include urban waste mismanagement, industrial activities, construction, and illegal dumping.

The impacts of plastic pollution on marine life are severe; it can entangle and suffocate animals, leading to injury or death, and ingestion can obstruct digestive tracts, resulting in malnutrition and starvation. Furthermore, plastic debris can leach harmful chemicals into marine ecosystems, which may bioaccumulate in food webs and ultimately pose health risks to humans through seafood consumption.

Beyond direct ecological effects, plastic pollution has significant economic and social repercussions. It can harm coastal tourism by rendering beaches and waterways unattractive and unsafe, while also reducing fisheries’ productivity due to entangled nets and gear. Marine wildlife, such as seabirds, whales, fish, and turtles, often mistake plastic for prey, leading to starvation from gastrointestinal blockages, as well as lacerations, infections, and reduced swimming ability.

Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS) is dedicated to supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its policies and practices. The university has implemented various policies, action plans, and initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and marine litter. These efforts to combat plastic pollution and marine debris are primarily carried out by students, faculty, and a range of RUTS partners.

Some specific activities that RUTS could undertake include:

Garbage Bank program to collect plastic waste and implementing a ban on single-use plastic bags across all RUTS campuses. This initiative aims to transform waste into revenue by collecting and sorting plastic waste, allowing participants to exchange it for cash.