From April 21 to 23, Vietnam Maritime University (VMU), in collaboration with the Center for Southeast Asian Studies and the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), co-organized the International Conference on Marine Plastic Pollution in ASEAN. The event was held as part of the University’s 70th anniversary celebrations and highlighted its role as a key national maritime education and research institution.
International conference on marine plastic pollution
The conference attracted more than 100 delegates, including experts, scientists, and policymakers from various domestic and international organizations such as the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Working Group on Coastal and Marine Environment, the Norwegian Embassy in Vietnam and in ASEAN, and numerous universities and research institutes.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Duc, Vice President of VMU delivered the opening remarks
With the theme “Plastic Pollution: From Land-Based Sources to the Ocean - Current Status and Solutions,” the conference provided a platform for participants to exchange research findings, assess the current situation, and propose technological and policy solutions to address marine plastic pollution - an increasingly urgent global challenge, particularly in Southeast Asia.
Discussion sessions among experts, scientists and lecturers
Discussions during the conference focused on sharing scientific research, enhancing regional cooperation, and developing practical initiatives to reduce plastic waste in marine environments. The event also emphasized strengthening collaboration among universities, research institutions, and international organizations to support sustainable marine economic development and environmental protection.
Experts, scientists, and participants joined in a field trip to Cat Ba Island - a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve
The conference reaffirmed VMU’s commitment to linking education and research with sustainable development goals, while contributing to regional and global efforts to address marine plastic pollution and protecting ocean ecosystems./.