The WWF is run at a local level by the following offices...
- WWF Global
- Adria
- Argentina
- Armenia
- AsiaPacific
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belgium
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Borneo
- Brazil
- Bulgaria
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Canada
- Caucasus
- Central African Republic
- Central America
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Croatia
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Denmark
- Ecuador
- European Policy Office
- Finland
Sea turtles have graced our ocean for over 100 million years, captivating humanity with their mysterious, long-distance marine voyages.
These remarkable creatures play a crucial role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems, such as carbon-rich seagrass beds, and dispersing vital nutrients.
For over five decades and across 30 countries, WWF has played a key role in marine turtle conservation, yielding significant success stories.
However, six out of seven marine turtle populations remain threatened or vulnerable to extinction due to illegal harvest and trade, fishing bycatch, habitat loss, marine pollution and the effects of climate change.
ILLEGAL HARVEST AND TRADE
Marine turtles are poached for their meat and eggs, which are used for food and medicine, as well as for their skin and shells. WWF actively works to disrupt illegal poaching and trafficking networks that endanger sea turtle populations.Collaboration with governments and local communities is crucial in dismantling these criminal operations and promoting sustainable practices.
Introducing ShellBank
ShellBank is a global platform uses DNA and forensic analysis to form a comprehensive dataset which maps out populations and places where marine turtles nest and roam, as well as where they’re sold and likely poached.
FISHING BYCATCH
The single greatest threat to most sea turtles is fishing gear. Hundreds of thousands of turtles are accidentally caught by gillnets, shrimp trawl nets and on longline hooks each year.
WWF collaborates with the fishing industry to develop and implement innovative bycatch mitigation technologies, such as turtle excluder devices (TEDs), that allow turtles to escape fishing gear unharmed.
HABITAT LOSS
Sea turtles rely on specific beaches for nesting. The habitats of marine turtles are being degraded or destroyed by certain types of coastal development, which means there are fewer places for them to live, eat and have young. This degradation or loss of habitat is the result of unsustainable tourism or other industrial development, as well as sea level rise.WWF works with communities and governments to protect these critical areas through the creation and management of marine protected areas (MPAs) and by promoting responsible coastal development practices.
MARINE POLLUTION
Plastic pollution and other marine debris can harm and kill sea turtles. WWF tackles this issue through advocacy efforts aimed at reducing plastic use and promoting responsible waste management practices.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Climate change is already affecting marine turtles in various ways. Sand temperature affects the ratio between female and male turtles born, with higher sand temperatures on nesting beaches producing more females. Some populations of green turtles have produced hatchlings that are 99% female due to warmer nesting beaches.In addition, sea level rise and more intense storm events will affect turtle nests and hatchling survival. Climate change also damages coral reefs, on which some turtles rely for food and habitat.
WWF advocates for stronger climate action and supports research to understand and mitigate the specific challenges posed by climate change.
WWF has been a champion for marine turtles for over five decades. But the challenges to turtle conservation are significant.
A single marine turtle will pass through numerous habitats on land and at sea, cross the borders of several countries, and swim through international waters during the course of its life. Marine turtles take decades to reach maturity before returning to the beach or region where they were born in order to lay eggs that ensure continuation of the species. This long and varied life journey guarantees that marine turtles will face numerous threats during their life cycle.
WWF is committed to stopping the decline and supporting the recovery of marine turtles globally. We are working to secure habitats and conditions – both ecological and social – in which turtles, and the people that depend upon them, can survive into the future. Here's how we're tackling this multifaceted challenge:
Combating Threats Across Regions
Our approach is regional, allowing us to address specific threats in key areas. This might involve:
Stopping Illegal Trade: Through initiatives like ShellBank, we utilize innovative DNA tracing to track turtle origins, aiding law enforcement in disrupting illegal harvest and trade.
Reducing Bycatch: We collaborate with fisheries to develop and promote fishing gear modifications that minimize accidental capture of turtles. We also support research on promising solutions like acoustic deterrents.
Protecting Crucial Habitats: From the Coral Triangle to the Mesoamerican Reef, we work with governments and local communities to safeguard critical nesting beaches, feeding grounds, and migration routes.
Investing in Research and Advocacy: Understanding threats is crucial for effective conservation. WWF invests in research to assess the impacts of climate change, pollution, and habitat loss on different turtle populations. This knowledge informs targeted conservation strategies and empowers us to advocate for stronger regulations at international forums.
Building a Sustainable Future for Turtles and People: We believe a healthy ocean is vital for both turtles and coastal communities. Our work fosters sustainable fishing practices and supports community-led marine conservation.
WWF's dedication extends beyond individual projects. We build partnerships with governments, local communities, and other conservation organizations, creating a united front for protecting marine turtles and ensuring healthy oceans for all.
