Regional Training Course on the Liable Research Methods to Collect and Analyze Marine Debris and Microplastic Regional Training Course on the Liable Research Methods to Collect ang Analyze Marine

25 February 2025 -

The Regional Training Course on the Liable Research Methods to Collect and Analyze Marine Debris and Microplastic was organised by SEAFDEC-TD and supported by the Government of Japan through the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). This training aimed to enhance the capacity of participants to address regional marine debris and microplastic issues. The course took place across three different locations: SEAFDEC Training Department in Samut Prakan for marine debris theory, Kasetsart University in Nakhon Pathom for microplastic sample analysis, and the Gulf of Thailand for practical fieldwork on marine debris data collection and microplastic sampling.

Around 80% of marine debris comes from unmanaged land-based waste, with 30% being plastic. This growing problem significantly impacts marine health, the economy, and human quality of life. BPSPL Padang, West Sumatra together with ASEAN country representatives, participated in the training, which was designed to strengthen regional efforts in tackling these environmental challenges.