Endangered sea turtles are showing signs of recovery in most parts of the world, according to a new global survey released on Thursday. This study examined 48 populations of sea turtles worldwide, assessing the impact of threats such as hunting, pollution, coastal development, and climate change on these marine animals. The survey found that in more than half of the studied areas, these threats are generally declining.
However, some exceptions were noted. Turtle populations in the Atlantic Ocean are more likely to recover compared to those in Pacific waters. Leatherback turtles, in particular, are not thriving as well as other species. Globally, leatherbacks are considered vulnerable to extinction, with many groups critically endangered, as per the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The seven regions where leatherbacks are found face significant environmental risks, as highlighted by study co-author Bryan Wallace, a wildlife ecologist at Ecolibrium in Colorado. Known for their extensive marine migrations, some leatherback turtles swim up to 3,700 miles in each direction, exposing them to unique risks across various regions.
Meanwhile, green turtles are still classified as endangered globally, though their populations are showing signs of recovery in many regions. Researchers observed that by ending commercial harvesting and allowing time for recovery, green turtle populations are now doing well in the coastal waters of many regions in Mexico and the United States. This progress follows protections granted under the United States Endangered Species Act of 1973 and Mexico’s ban on sea turtle capture in 1990. It took several decades for these measures, alongside efforts to protect nesting beaches and reduce bycatch in fisheries, to reflect positively in population trends.
Yet, worldwide, the issue of sea turtles dying from accidental entanglement in fishing gear remains a significant threat. New technologies are being developed to mitigate this, but they require acceptance and regular use by various fishing communities to be effective.
This survey, published in the journal Endangered Species Research, marks the first update in more than a decade.
The Tangible Impact
The ongoing recovery of sea turtle populations signifies a positive outcome for global conservation efforts. This resurgence can enhance biodiversity and ecological balance, benefiting marine environments and human communities relying on these ecosystems for their livelihood. Moreover, healthier sea turtle populations can attract eco-tourism, bolstering local economies through conservation tourism.
However, the persistent threat of bycatch highlights a need for continued innovation and collaboration among fishing communities worldwide. Adopting new technologies to reduce unintentional captures could protect sea turtles while maintaining the economic viability of fisheries. Ultimately, these conservation successes and challenges underscore the importance of sustained global commitment to environmental protection and sustainable practices.
