Sea Turtle Foundation is involved in finding solutions to the many human threats faced by sea turtles today. Through research, education, awareness and action we will meet our mission statement of:

Safeguarding sea turtle populations, migration routes and habitats, and supporting activities that increase sea turtle numbers worldwide.

Solutions will be as varied as the range of threats, and will require international cooperation to implement management plans based on the findings of research.

What you can do

We can all make a difference in our daily lives. Here are some simple changes you can make to protect and conserve sea turtles:

In the boat:

• Slow down over turtle feeding grounds such as seagrass beds and coral reefs.
• Do not throw old fishing lines, nets or plastics into the sea. Take them home and dispose of them properly.
• Do not anchor on seagrass beds.

In the community:

• Don’t litter. Rubbish discarded on streets will wash through stormwater drains and into the sea.
• If you see rubbish (especially plastics) pick it up and dispose of it properly.
• Keep lighting to a minimum if you live by the beach. For more information on inappropriate lighting around turtle nesting beaches download our Sea Turtles and Lights brochure here.
• Insist on ecologically appropriate coastal development.
• Encourage farming practices that do not degrade catchment water quality.
• Only eat seafood from sustainable fisheries.
• Do not harass, touch, or shine lights on nesting, swimming or mating turtles, or emerging hatchlings.
• Do not light fires on beaches where turtles are known to nest.
• Do not drive on beaches where turtles are known to nest.

Report turtle strandings

• Report any sick or dead turtles to your local fauna protection or management authority. In Queensland, Australia call the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Marine Stranding Hotline on 1300 130 372.

Take action

Sea Turtle Foundation is a non-profit group that relies on community support to protect sea turtles. You can be part of the solution by supporting Sea Turtle Foundation and becoming a member or volunteer. Or help us make a difference by making a tax deductable donation.