Stranding Response
Sick, injured or dead turtles often wash up on beaches; our volunteers assist authorities in responding to and collecting data from stranding events.
Marine Debris
Thousands of sea turtles die every year from marine debris.
Coastal Lights
Inappropriate coastal lighting disturbs nesting females and sends hatchlings the wrong way.
Community Events
Raising awareness of our activities and letting the public know how to get involved is part of our action strategy–come along and show your support for sea turtles!
Overall
Supporting marine life, especially marine turtles, involves a multifaceted approach that encompasses both direct and indirect actions. One crucial step is reducing plastic waste, as marine turtles often mistake plastics for food, leading to ingestion and entanglement. This can be achieved by opting for reusable products, participating in beach cleanups, and advocating for policies that limit single-use plastics. Additionally, supporting organizations dedicated to marine conservation through donations or volunteer work is vital. These organizations often focus on protecting nesting sites, rehabilitating injured turtles, and raising public awareness about the threats facing marine turtles.
Another effective action is promoting sustainable fishing practices. By choosing seafood from sustainable sources, you help reduce the bycatch of marine turtles, which often get caught in fishing gear. Educating oneself and others about the importance of marine ecosystems and the threats facing marine turtles is also critical. This includes raising awareness about the impact of climate change on marine habitats and advocating for policies that address these environmental challenges.
Participating in citizen science programs can also make a significant difference. These programs often involve monitoring turtle nesting sites, reporting sightings of turtles and their nests, and contributing to data collection that helps scientists understand and protect these species.
Lastly, responsible tourism is key. When visiting marine environments, it's important to respect wildlife, avoid disturbing nesting turtles, and follow guidelines set by local conservation groups. Choosing eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators that practice environmentally responsible tourism can also contribute to the conservation of marine turtles and their habitats. By integrating these practices into our daily lives and encouraging others to do the same, we can collectively make a significant impact in supporting marine turtles and the broader marine ecosystem.