NEWS:
Date: June 3-7, 2024
Location: Nha Trang University
Participants: Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HLU), Nha Trang University (NTU), Kien Giang University (KGU), Research Institute for Marine Fisheries (RIMF), Siam Brothers Vietnam, STP Group, Vinatuna, International Collaborating Centre for Aquaculture and Fisheries Sustainability (Icafis)
Guest Lectures: Resa Energy Ltd., VIKHA’S (Recycling Machinery Supplier from Ho Chi Minh City)
From June 3rd to 7th, 2024, a diverse group of institutions and companies gathered at Nha Trang University for an intensive workshop focused on marine conservation and recycling. The event featured esteemed participants including Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HLU), Nha Trang University (NTU), Kien Giang University (KGU), the Research Institute for Marine Fisheries (RIMF), Siam Brothers Vietnam, STP Group, Vinatuna, and Icafis. This workshop fostered cross-institutional collaboration, aiming to advance practical solutions for environmental sustainability in marine settings.
Key Themes and Activities
Ordering Recycling Machinery: One of the main objectives was to discuss the procurement of recycling machinery. VIKHA’S, a prominent supplier from Ho Chi Minh City, provided a comprehensive guest lecture on recycling technology. Participants discussed specifications and logistics for the acquisition and installation of these machines, which are crucial for local and regional recycling efforts.
Best-Practice Guides for Preventing Marine Litter: A significant focus was also placed on developing best-practice guides to prevent fishing nets from being discarded in the ocean. Experts shared insights and strategies, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate marine pollution. This segment aimed at equipping participants with actionable knowledge to implement in their respective regions.
General Project Coordination: Throughout the workshop, project coordination was a critical theme. Sessions were dedicated to aligning goals, timelines, and responsibilities among the participating organizations. This ensured that all stakeholders were on the same page, fostering a cohesive approach to the project’s objectives.
Excursions and Practical Insights
Siam Brothers Vietnam: Participants visited Siam Brothers Vietnam to film the rope production process and discuss the use of analytical devices in quality control. This excursion provided valuable insights into the practical aspects of manufacturing and the importance of precision in producing durable, eco-friendly ropes.
Resa Energy Ltd.: The group also toured Resa Energy Ltd., a small yet innovative recycling company. This visit highlighted the operations of a compact recycling facility, showcasing the potential for scalable recycling solutions that can be adopted by other regions.
Fishermen’s Island: A particularly enlightening excursion was to a fishermen’s island, where participants conducted interviews with local net repairers. This interaction shed light on the traditional practices and challenges faced by those who repair and maintain fishing nets, providing a grassroots perspective on marine conservation.
Interviews and Knowledge Exchange
In-depth interviews were conducted with representatives from Icafis, Resa Energy Ltd., and local net repairers. These interviews offered diverse perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the field of marine conservation and recycling. Icafis shared their expertise on sustainable aquaculture practices, while Resa Energy discussed innovative recycling technologies. The net repairers provided practical insights into the day-to-day realities of maintaining fishing equipment, emphasizing the importance of durable and recyclable materials.
Conclusion
The workshop at Nha Trang University successfully brought together a wide array of stakeholders, each contributing unique insights and expertise. The collaborative efforts during this session laid a solid foundation for ongoing initiatives in marine conservation and recycling. By combining academic knowledge, industry experience, and grassroots practices, the participants are well-equipped to drive meaningful change in their respective fields. The fruitful discussions and practical excursions underscored the importance of a unified approach to environmental sustainability, paving the way for a cleaner, healthier ocean.