SDG 14
Indicator 14.4.2
Sustainability and Stewardship
RUTS Action Plan for Marine Plastic Reduction at Trang Campus
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| Reporters: |
Dr. Chanyut Sudtongkong
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Asst. Prof. Aneak Sawain |
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Miss. Kanokwan Juhong |
October 25, 2024
Marine plastic poses a major environmental threat, especially along coastlines. Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS), Trang Campus, sits on the Andaman Sea and features a scenic beach. While the university has policies to reduce plastic waste, the beach often ends up covered in plastic during monsoon season due to ocean currents that bring in debris.
Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS) at Trang Campus launched a 2023 action plan to reduce marine plastic debris and promote beach cleanups. The initiative focuses on educating participants about the impact of marine plastic on ecosystems through interactive workshops and hands-on cleanups.
Goals and Objectives
1. Educate Youth on Marine Debris: Raise awareness on plastic waste hazards, emphasizing the importance of protecting marine life and maintaining clean coastlines.
2. Hands-on Training in Marine Surveys: Equip students to identify and measure marine debris, fostering environmental responsibility and sustainable habits.
3. Promote Environmental Stewardship: Engage local high school students in coastal conservation, encouraging them to lead community efforts to reduce plastic waste.
KeyStakeholders
- Organizers: Assistant Professors Aneak Sawain and Pornthep Wirachwong, Faculty of Fisheries Science and Technology.
- Participants: High school students, teachers, and staff from Trang Province and nearby areas.
Budget and Resources
- Transportation: Provided by Benjamarachutit School for students and staff.
- Workshop Materials: Educational handouts, presentation slides, and debris survey kits funded by RUTS.
- Clean-up Tools: Gloves, trash bags, sorting bins, and protective gear for participants, sponsored by RUTS.
- Refreshments: Meals and drinks for the one-day event, provided by Benjamarachutit School.
Evaluation and Success Metrics:
- Number of participants trained and their engagement level.
- Amount of plastic and debris collected in the beach cleanup.
- Feedback from students, teachers, and staff on training effectiveness.
Timeline
- January 2023: Coordination with high schools.
- February 2023: Campaign promotion and material prep.
- March 2023: Campaign execution (1-day event).
- April 2023: Reporting and feedback.
Action Steps
1. Pre-event Coordination (January 2023): Finalize attendance lists with Benjamarachutit School; obtain necessary permissions.
2. Material Preparation (February 2023): Create educational materials, workshop kits, and survey guidelines.
3. Campaign Day (March 20, 2023):
– Morning (08.00-12.00 A.M.): Welcome by professors, presentations on marine plastic impacts, and group discussions on conservation.
-Afternoon: (13.00-17.00 p.m.): Practical debris survey training and beach cleanup along the Andaman coast, followed by a debrief on survey findings.
4. Post-event Reporting: Summarize campaign results, participant feedback, and recommendations for future events. Distribute feedback forms for further insights.
Through the implementation of this action plan, RUTS can effectively contribute to the reduction of marine plastic waste, thereby supporting the long-term sustainability of the Andaman coastal ecosystem.
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Related Links:
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=3493619190960155&set=pcb.3493619640960110
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=879075276528703&set=pcb.879075486528682
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=879075313195366&set=pcb.879075486528682
http://www.trangchanneltv.com/article.php?news_id=01797
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