The Youth Fund at COP29 – Advocating for Marine Sustainability

At the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, Satita Ninsuvannakul, President of The Youth Fund and student at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, represented Thai youth on the global stage through her presentation of the “Nets Up Project”, a collaboration with SCGC. The initiative transforms discarded fishing nets—known as ghost nets that account for 46% of ocean plastic—into sustainable marine materials for textiles and consumer products.

 

Her presentation emphasized how environmental protection can go hand-in-hand with economic development, creating opportunities for coastal communities while reducing marine waste. By collecting and upcycling discarded nets through local Plastic Banks, the project promotes a circular economy that benefits both people and the planet.

 

Satita’s participation at COP29 showcased Thailand’s growing youth leadership in environmental innovation and climate advocacy. Through her speech and product demonstration, she highlighted the importance of international collaboration in marine conservation and the role of young changemakers in building a sustainable future.