BAKU, Azerbaijan – A Thai high school student brought her innovative solution to marine pollution to the global stage at COP29, presenting a circular economy project that transforms destructive ghost fishing nets into sustainable materials.
Satita Ninsuvannakul, President of The Youth Fund and student at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, addressed international delegates about her “Nets Up Project,” a collaboration with SCGC that targets ghost nets – which make up 46% of ocean plastic pollution.
The initiative works with ten coastal communities through Plastic Banks to collect discarded fishing nets, converting them into Marine Materials for textiles and consumer products. This approach not only reduces marine waste but also creates economic opportunities for local communities.
“By supporting these designs, you contribute directly to marine conservation efforts,” said Satita, who incorporated art into her presentation through product designs including a poignant sculpture of a sea turtle entangled in nets.
The project showcases a practical model for combining environmental protection with economic development. Satita called for other nations to adopt similar approaches in tackling marine pollution, emphasizing the need for international collaboration in driving sustainability efforts.
Her presentation at COP29 highlighted Thailand’s growing youth leadership in environmental advocacy while reflecting Shrewsbury International School Bangkok’s success in nurturing globally conscious leaders.
The United Nations climate talks (COP29), which ended on November 24, adopted a deal to inject at least $300 billion annually into humanity’s fight against climate change, aiming to help developing nations cope with the ravages of global warming after tense negotiations.
