DSSC-CSIRO team co-leads the training on marine plastic litter monitoring program in Luzon

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The DSSC, in collaboration with the Australian Commonwealth Scientific Research Organisation (CSIRO) marine debris research team led by Dr. Britta Denise Hardetsy, conducted training on marine plastic litter monitoring last February 13–22, 2023, at Central Park Reef Resort, Olongapo, Zambales. The training was attended by 18 government employees and officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau's central and regional offices. To assist with the training program, eight faculty members and one student from Davao del Sur State College, namely: Eduardo F. Aquino, Razel Allan R. Valleser, Loradel D. Llenado, Nel Panaligan, Richie Boy Restauro, Queenie Lyn Almerez, Harold Fuentes, Jayson R. Pucot, and Jerve Robin Paterno, were requested to provide technical support. The training program involves lectures, in-field practice, and the conduct of an actual plastic litter survey. The primary objective of the training is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to establish and design a program for monitoring and assessing the distribution and abundance of plastic litter in the environment. The training also aimed to support national monitoring programs and the National Plan of Action in the Philippines. As plastic waste continues to harm our oceans and wildlife, the DSSC and CSIRO team's efforts in educating government officials on proper marine plastic litter monitoring is a significant step towards a cleaner, healthier environment.