The EnvironmentAsia 2017 Conference and its marine presentations were a succes

During 21 and 22 June, over 200 scientists and policy makers from all over the world attended the EnvironmentAsia 2017 conference in Bangkok. All levels of government were present as well: the United Nations, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the National Thai Government and municipalities (KIMO). The attendees were informed about a variety of topics including: air quality, soil pollution, habitat degradation, solid waste management et cetera. See this link for further information: http://www.tshe.org/environmentasia-2017/ 

Since marine litter is an urgent matter, and over half of the solid waste in the oceans comes from Asia: KIMO, the association of NW European coastal municipalities delivered two presentations on this topic. The presentations were well received: Fishing for Litter as a means to collect waste present in the ocean (refer to photo attached). Next, a presentation on the Dutch Green Deal approach as an example of an environmental network approach to actively engage society in addressing environmental issues was delivered. These Green Deals aim at cleaning the oceans and the prevention of littering beaches and the seas. All efforts help, so a broader implementation of these programmes, outside Europe, are desirable.

The two days of presentations and debate were concluded by excursions to interesting sites in and around Bangkok. The whole package made attending the conference really worthwhile. The organisers of the conference are thanked for their efforts and we look forward to the next conference in 2019!