Every year on 23 May, we celebrate World Turtle Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about these amazing creatures and the threats they face. Here in the Maldives, with its beautiful coral reefs and crystal clear waters, these gentle giants hold a special meaning.
The Maldives is home to five of the world’s seven sea turtle species, with green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles being the most frequented species. This prehistoric marine turtle plays an important role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. They feed on seagrass beds to keep them healthy and encourage new plant growth. This provides important habitat for a myriad of fish and marine life.
Understanding the importance of these shelled guardians, the Maldives has taken great steps towards protecting sea turtles. In 1995, the country banned the capture and killing of sea turtles, as well as the import and sale of sea turtle products. The Environmental Protection and Conservation Act was then enacted in 2016, firmly establishing sea turtles’ status as a protected species.
But protection is more than just legislation. Several projects are actively working to protect the future of this marine wonder. Community-based efforts are at the forefront, with local island communities working with NGOs to patrol nesting beaches and protect eggs from poachers. Additionally, many resorts in the Maldives actively participate in turtle conservation efforts, educating tourists and offering opportunities to participate in beach cleanups and witness the release of hatched turtles. I am.
The traditional connection that Maldivians have with sea turtles is also being harnessed in conservation efforts: images of sea turtles appear on our currency, stamps and historical artefacts, fostering cultural respect for these creatures.
World Turtle Day reminds us that we have a responsibility to protect these vulnerable animals. By supporting conservation efforts, reducing our use of plastic and being responsible tourists, we can all help ensure that these gentle giants continue to grace the turquoise waters of the Maldives for generations to come.
Photo credit: Hurawalhi Maldives and Six Senses Laamu
