WU’s Policy for Preventing and Reducing Marine Pollution
Walailak University revised the policy on Marine Pollution Reduction in 2024 to keep the policy updated and provide more details on measures to prevent and reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities to show WU’s commitment to being good stewardship both on and off campus. The new policy is titled “Policy on Marine Pollution Reduction B.E. 2567 (2024)”.
Walailak University realizes that it must implement the Policy on Marine Pollution Reduction to uphold its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. As a prominent educational institution in Thailand, the university has a responsibility to model best practices in environmental management and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14). This policy’s new version addresses the urgent need for marine conservation and reinforces the university’s dedication to preserving marine ecosystems, essential for biodiversity and the well-being of coastal communities.
The policy provides a comprehensive framework for preventing and mitigating marine pollution, ensuring compliance with national and international regulations. By monitoring marine environments, Walailak University can effectively identify and address pollution sources, contributing to biodiversity preservation both on campus and beyond.
Moreover, in 2023, the policy promotes awareness and education, fostering a culture of environmental consciousness among students and the community. Through outreach initiatives and the integration of pollution reduction practices into academic programs, the university encourages active participation in conservation efforts.
Action Plan on Plastic Waste Reduction 2022-2025
WU recognizes that an action plan is essential for effectively preventing and reducing all forms of marine pollution on campus, especially from land-based activities. In 2022, WU launched the Action Plan on Plastic Waste Reduction 2022-2025, outlining both its accomplishments and the goals set for 2025. This plan provides a clear framework for achieving lasting environmental impact and supporting sustainable practices within the university community. By setting clear targets and detailing achievements, the action plan provides a roadmap for the university to minimize its plastic footprint and enhance environmental sustainability on campus. This initiative not only contributes to the protection of marine ecosystems but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility among students and staff, empowering the university community to actively participate in conservation efforts. Ultimately, the action plan positions Walailak University as a leader in sustainable practices, reflecting its commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges. The detail of the action plan is described in the eBook and attached pdf/picture file below:
WU’s Campaign to Stop Using Plastic Items
Walailak University actively campaigns for students, staff, and employees to reject the use of plastic bags and instill a Zero Waste mindset, contributing to the reduction and prevention of marine pollution on campus. WU encourages students and staff to use cloth bags or other items that can be reusable, instead of using plastic items.
In addition, in 2023, WU has embedded the 7R principles which are Refuse, Recycle, Reuse, Refill, Repair, Return, and Reduce, into the daily practices of students and staff, aiming to minimize waste to the greatest extent possible. Additionally, the university encourages sharing these practices with family members, colleagues, and friends to foster a waste-free society. Through these efforts, Walailak University is committed to creating a cleaner, more sustainable world, and helping preserve the environment for future generations.
Activities Through the Student Club in Promoting the Reduction and Prevention of Marine Pollution
The Walailak University Marine Conservation Club is a student volunteering club established by a group of Walailak students in the School of Science (Marine Science Program). This club has been implementing activities to promote the reduction and prevention of marine pollution, especially plastic waste both on and off campus. Through hands-on activities, educational outreach, and cleanup initiatives, the club not only helps protect local marine environments but also instills a sense of environmental stewardship among its members and the wider student body. In 2023, the club organized programs at Walailak University to raise awareness about plastic waste and off-campus projects to reduce plastic waste causing marine pollution to the water sources surrounding the university and the Gulf of Thailand. One of the projects was the Local Waste Collection Initiative which has been continually organized for several years, in collaboration with Trash Hero and local communities and government organizations.
Figures: Activities in 2023 organized by the student club to promote the reduction and prevention of plastic waste and other types of waste causing marine pollution.
Goal 14: Life below water
Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Goal 13: Climate Action
Goal 15: Life on Land