As part of the activities carried out within the Mangrove Marine Park, awareness-raising sessions on sea turtle conservation were organized for students from local communities. This initiative is part of a broader environmental education approach aimed at strengthening young people’s ecological awareness in the face of growing threats to marine biodiversity.
Led by Mr. Myong Cham Kandolo Victor, Community Conservation Program Manager and tutor at Youth Conservation, this action highlights the central role of education in building sustainable and inclusive conservation practices.
Understanding the Essential Role of Sea Turtles in Marine Ecosystems
Through simple, interactive, and age-appropriate discussions, students learned about the crucial role sea turtles play in maintaining ocean balance. As true indicator species, sea turtles contribute to the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs, while being particularly vulnerable to human activities.
The sea turtle life cycle was explained in a clear and engaging way, from nesting on beaches to life in the open sea. This concrete approach helped students better understand the challenges these species face at every stage of their lives.
Citizen Actions to Protect Sea Turtles
The awareness sessions also focused on responsible behaviors that can be adopted in everyday life. Students learned the importance of not disturbing nesting sites, reporting nests when observed, and fighting plastic pollution—one of the leading causes of sea turtle mortality worldwide.
By emphasizing simple yet essential actions, this initiative demonstrates that everyone can contribute, at their own level, to the protection of marine wildlife and its habitats.
Engaged Students, Future Ambassadors for Conservation
The initiative generated great enthusiasm among the participating students. Now more aware of the fragility of their natural heritage, they are becoming true environmental ambassadors within their families and communities.
This field-based action clearly shows that environmental education is the first step toward successful community-based conservation. By educating and empowering young people, a strong local dynamic for biodiversity protection is created—supporting the long-term conservation of sea turtles and coastal ecosystems.