By Patrick Omoake
As the world marks World Oceans Day today, June 8, 2025, under the resonant theme “Wonder: Sustaining what sustains us,” global attention turns once again to the life-giving waters that cover more than 70% of our planet and to the urgent need to protect the marine life within them, especially sea turtles.
“The health of our oceans is directly tied to our own survival,” says James Baya Yaa, the Secretary, Mtwapa Maweni Turtle Conservation Project, Kenya.
Sea turtles, often considered ancient mariners of the sea, play a vital role in marine ecosystems. They help maintain healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs, both of which support fisheries and contribute to the well-being of coastal communities. Yet, these remarkable creatures are under siege from plastic pollution and coastal development to illegal poaching and overfishing.
A Local Effort with Global Significance
In Kenya, the Mtwapa Maweni Turtle Conservation Project, led by James Baya Yaa, exemplifies grassroots action making a real difference.
The project safeguards nesting beaches, rescues stranded turtles, plants mangroves, educates local communities, and partners with the Kenya Wildlife Service to preserve marine biodiversity.
“World Oceans Day is more than just a celebration it’s a global call to action,” James Baya Yaa highlighted.
The Bigger Picture
This year’s theme encourages humanity to reflect on the wonder of the ocean and the imperative to protect it. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated in his World Oceans Day message: “The ocean is a source of life, supporting humanity’s food security, economic prosperity, and well-being. Yet, we are harming it at our own peril.”
Indeed, the decline in sea turtle populations signals wider environmental degradation. Protecting these creatures is not just about conservation it’s about sustaining a system that sustains us all.
What You Can Do to Help Save Sea Turtles
Here’s how you can take action today to contribute to sea turtle conservation and the broader health of our oceans:
1. Reduce Plastic Use
Plastic waste is one of the greatest threats to marine life. Swap out single-use plastics like straws, bags, and bottles for reusable alternatives.
2. Support Marine Conservation Projects
Back organizations like the Mtwapa Maweni Turtle Conservation Project by donating, volunteering, or helping to amplify their work.
3. Join a Beach Cleanup or Volunteer Locally
Participate in coastal cleanups or support a local conservation group. Even small actions on your shoreline can have a global ripple effect.
4. Raise Awareness
Use your voice and platforms to inform others about sea turtle conservation. Share stories, infographics, or videos that inspire others to care and act.
5. Advocate for Policy and Funding
Call on local, national, and global leaders to invest in conservation efforts. Policies that ban harmful fishing practices and protect nesting areas are vital to sea turtle survival.
Final Thoughts
As we celebrate World Oceans Day 2025, let it not just be a day of awareness, but one of action and commitment. Sea turtles, like so many other ocean dwellers, depend on our stewardship. In protecting them, we protect ourselves.
By sustaining what sustains us, we ensure a healthier, more resilient planet for all life, now and in the future.