Celebrating World Sea Turtle Day
16/06/2025
Every year on June 16, World Sea Turtle Day reminds us of the extraordinary creatures that have roamed our oceans for over 100 million years. Sea turtles are not only icons of nature’s endurance, but also play an essential role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Among the species found in the Adriatic Sea, the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) holds special importance and it is one of the species directly addressed within the ASPEH project.
Despite their strength and adaptability, sea turtles today face growing challenges. One of the lesser-known but critical issues is the impact of rising sand temperatures on hatchling development. Loggerhead turtles can lay multiple nests per season, with each nest containing up to 125 eggs. The temperature of the sand where eggs are buried determines the sex of the hatchlings: warmer sand (above 29.5°C) produces mostly females, while cooler sand (below 29.5°C) results in males. With the steady increase in global temperatures, we are witnessing a sharp decline in the number of male hatchlings a trend that threatens future population balance.
Another major concern is plastic pollution, particularly microplastics. Research shows that plastic-contaminated sand heats up more quickly, further skewing sex ratios. Even more alarming, microplastics have now been found in the very sand where turtles nest, potentially affecting egg development and hatchling survival. This environmental burden adds to the already critical threats turtles face, including habitat loss, bycatch in fishing nets, boat strikes, and marine debris ingestion.
Over a decade has passed since the image of a sea turtle with a plastic straw lodged in its nostril shocked the world and triggered a wave of awareness. Yet the challenges remain. That is why efforts like the ASPEH project are essential. By promoting the protection of key species and habitats including the loggerhead turtle the project helps to raise awareness, encourage responsible human behavior, and support practical conservation measures.
Sea turtle conservation requires both systemic change and individual commitment. On this World Sea Turtle Day, we invite everyone citizens, policymakers, researchers, and sea lovers—to reflect, learn, and act. Every small step toward reducing waste, protecting coastal habitats, and supporting marine biodiversity matters.
Because every species counts. And every action makes a difference.