Coastal Oceanography and Climate Change Research Center (COCC) led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sutinee Sinutok and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mathinee Yucharoen—together with the International Affairs and Corporate Communication Center, organized the activity “Marine Debris vs. Debris Sea” on August 9, 2025 at Samila Beach, Songkhla Province.

The activity formed part of the Thai–Chinese Youth Exchange Program: “Rooted in Heritage, Building a Sustainable Thai–Chinese Community of the Future.” The initiative aimed to strengthen environmental awareness, cross-cultural learning, and youth engagement in sustainable development.

Researchers, students, and staff collaboratively collected marine debris along the beach, followed by waste sorting and basic valuation assessment. Participants then presented creative ideas for recycling and upcycling collected materials, transforming marine waste into potential new resources while highlighting the environmental and economic impacts of plastic pollution.

The event provided hands-on learning experience in marine conservation and circular economy principles, reinforcing the importance of shared responsibility in addressing ocean pollution. It also strengthened international collaboration and youth leadership in building a more sustainable future for marine and coastal ecosystems.