The event, led by the Chulabhorn Research Institute, brought together government officials, volunteer divers, and members of the public in a unified conservation campaign.
Phuket Vice Governor Suwit Pansengiam presided over the opening ceremony, which was attended by representatives from various government bodies, environmental organisations, and the local community.
The event began with a ceremonial tribute to Their Majesties the King and Queen, followed by a group recitation of the pledge, “We do good deeds with our hearts”, and the launch of the volunteer cleanup activities.
Participants collected waste along the coast and underwater at Nai Yang Beach, a popular area within Sirinat National Park. Waste was sorted according to the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) Card system, weighed and recorded for use in future environmental planning.
Bancha Techasakul, Vice President of the Chulabhorn Research Institute’s Special Activities Division, said the initiative was part of the institute’s ongoing ‘Chulabhorn Underwater Park 36’ project. The project focuses on developing skilled conservation divers and includes work to install and repair underwater mooring robots.
“The accumulation of marine waste, particularly plastics, poses a serious threat to marine life and ecosystems,” Mr Bancha said. “This activity not only addresses the pollution issue but also promotes long-term conservation awareness and sustainable tourism.”