Thai expedition to plant flag on North Pole for environmental research

Bangkok (NNT/VNA) – Thai scientists have announced the first Thai expedition to the North Pole to conduct research on the impact of environmental disasters. 

In his remarks, Professor Phairat Thatchayaphong, a Member and Secretary of the Board Committee of the Information Technology Foundation, said that the expedition is an initiative of Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, who hopes that polar journeys to both the North and South Poles will bring benefits and raise the standard of science in Thailand. 

Associate Professor Dr Voranop Viyakarn, head of the expedition and the Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, indicated that the journey is a collaboration between various agencies to study the impact of climate change and plastic pollution on the marine environment, as the North Pole, also known as a waste disposal site, is more susceptible to ecological changes than any other area.

Therefore, the Arctic region is a warning to the public of the repercussions of human activities ranging from greenhouse gas emissions to marine debris. 

Associate Professor Dr Suchana Chavanich, a lecturer from the department, acknowledged that the expedition will meet several challenges. First, physical and mental strength is required, as the undersea exploration will be carried out in the extreme weather. Moreover, each operation should take no more than half an hour, as long undersea diving causes shock. Scientists also need to be wary of sea creatures and depend on support from their instructors and cameramen. 

Dr Suchana stressed that Thailand's first expedition to the Arctic region will allow Thai scientists to gather information, find solutions, and prepare for environmental changes.-NNT/VNA