Adriatic and Turtles: A new alliance for conservation

THE ADRIATIC IS CONFIRMED AS A CRUCIAL HABITAT FOR THE SURVIVAL OF SEA TURTLES BUT THESE FACE SERIOUS THREATS RELATED TO HUMAN ACTIVITIES. TO PROTECT THEM, THE WORLD SUSTAINABILITY FOUNDATION HAS STARTED A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CETACEAN FOUNDATION, SUPPORTING VETERINARY TREATMENTS, REHABILITATION AND AWARENESS. THIS COLLABORATION NOT ONLY PROTECTS DOZENS OF SPECIMENS EVERY YEAR, BUT PROMOTES A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE BASED ON RESEARCH AND AWARENESS

The Adriatic is taking on an increasingly crucial role for the survival and prosperity of sea turtles, becoming a habitat of primary importance in the Mediterranean. In recent years, studies and observations have recorded a significant increase in the presence of these extraordinary reptiles in its waters, with an estimate exceeding 75 thousand specimens. This data underlines the centrality of this region for marine biodiversity and the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem.

Three main species of turtles they frequent the Adriatic waters. There Caretta carettagenerally known as the Loggerhead Turtle, is by far the most widespread and represents the stable resident species in this area. Added to this are Chelonia mydas, better known as Green Turtleand the Dermochelys coriacea, or Leatherback turtle. The latter two species occur less frequently, making their sightings rarer and more valuable events for researchers.

The extraordinary migratory capacity of sea turtles leads them to travel hundreds, if not thousands of kilometres, starting from the nesting areas located in the waters of the Ionian, Tyrrhenian, Aegean and the northern coasts of Africa. Attracted by the abundance of nutrients, they choose the Adriatic as a privileged destination to nourish themselves and regenerate. This sea, characterized by shallow waters, represents an ideal feeding area thanks to the rich presence of algae, jellyfish, crustaceans such as crabs, and molluscs such as mussels and clams. Among the most fertile and favorable areas for foraging, the area of ​​the mouth of the Po stands out, a region where biodiversity reaches exceptional levels.

Turtle life: a constant challenge to survive

However, the life of these ancient creatures is far from danger-free. Numerous threats put their survival at risk, many of which are directly linked to human activities. Accidental catches represent one of the most serious problems: turtles remain trapped in fishing nets, both trawling and gill nets, often suffering serious injuries or dying. Furthermore, the ingestion of fishing hooks, mistakenly mistaken for prey, causes internal damage that can be fatal.

Collisions with vessels, especially while resting on the surface, also pose a significant danger. Marine pollution, due to the spillage of toxic substances and the accumulation of plastic waste, represents another critical challenge. Turtles, often attracted by floating plastic, risk ingesting it, with devastating consequences for their health. Finally, climate change, by altering water temperatures and ecological cycles, negatively influences the habitats and migratory habits of these species.

Protect the Adriatic Sea, this fragile ecosystem

The Adriatic, with its natural richness and its fundamental role in the life cycle of sea turtles, deserves particular attention. Protecting this fragile ecosystem means not only guaranteeing the survival of these extraordinary animals, but also safeguarding a heritage of inestimable value for future generations. A joint commitment of institutions, researchers and local communities is needed to implement effective and sustainable conservation strategies.

The World Sustainability Foundation supports Fondazione Cetacea: a commitment to the protection of sea turtles in Italy

The World Sustainability Foundationa non-profit organization committed to sustainability and environmental protection, enthusiastically announces a strategic partnership with the Cetacea Foundation. The latter, since 1988, represents a historical Italian reality dedicated to the protection of the marine environment and its precious resources.

The Sea Turtle Recovery Centre, an excellence for the health of the shells

The flagship of the Cetacea Foundation is the Sea Turtle Recovery Center in Riccione. This structure, considered among the most important in the Adriatic, welcomes between 60 and 80 specimens of sea turtles every year, with a prevalence of Caretta caretta. Here, the animals receive specialized veterinary care and rehabilitation programs that allow them to return to living freely in their natural habitat.

The Cetacea Foundation actively collaborates with public bodies, NGOs, fishing communities and economic operators, creating a synergistic network for the protection of the fragile marine ecosystem. Thanks to these joint actions, it promotes environmental awareness and strengthens the crucial role of the Adriatic as an area of ​​protection and recovery of marine species.

This new collaboration with the World Sustainability Foundation underlines the shared commitment to address environmental challenges and to build a sustainable future, based on respect and protection of natural resources.

The center’s activities include:

  • Scientific monitoring of specimens
  • Educational programs in schools
  • Specialist training for maritime operators
  • Raising awareness of local communities
  • Collaborations in European cross-border projects

I programmi di Friend of the Sea

Support for the Cetacea Foundation is part of an ambitious environmental protection program promoted by the World Sustainability Organization. This program includes the Friend of the Sea certificationsdesigned to protect sea turtles and preserve their habitats.

Turtle-Safe certified

This standard rewards companies that adopt innovative technologies and practices to reduce turtle bycatch. Among these, the Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs)specific tools that significantly reduce turtle mortality during fishing operations.

Certificazione Sustainable Sea Turtle Watching

Sea Turtle Watching regulates tourist observation of sea turtles, imposing strict guidelines to ensure minimal impact on the animals and their delicate ecosystem.

Tangible and strategic help

The contribution offered by the World Sustainability Foundation to the Cetacea Foundation represents tangible and strategic help. This support is intended to cover the costs necessary for the assistance of sea turtles at the Riccione Recovery Centre. The resources will finance fundamental aspects such as:

_ Specialized medical care, including diagnostics, therapies and medications

_ Logistical support, including maintenance, feeding and rehabilitation of the specimens.

This commitment translates into a significant impact for the conservation of Adriatic sea turtles. Thanks to this support, every year it is possible to save, treat and reintroduce dozens of turtles into nature, contributing to the restoration of the ecological balance of the sea.

Furthermore, the initiative strengthens scientific research and promotes environmental education among the new generations. Raising public awareness, especially young people, represents a fundamental step towards building a sustainable future, where harmonious coexistence with marine species becomes a concrete and lasting reality.