The future of sea turtles is being severely threatened by accelerating climate change , which is compounding existing threats such as pollution, indiscriminate fishing, and coastal development. These reptiles, which have roamed the oceans for over 100 million years, now face a real danger of extinction if urgent and coordinated global action is not taken.
In regions like the Chilean, Colombian, and Peruvian coasts, five of the seven known species of sea turtles worldwide are found, and all face some kind of threat . The situation is especially critical for species like the leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles, which are listed as critically endangered or endangered by international organizations such as the IUCN. Furthermore, the green and olive ridley turtles face considerable risks and are considered vulnerable.
Impacts of climate change on the lives of sea turtles
One of the most significant problems caused by climate change is the rising temperature of the sand where turtles lay their eggs . The temperature during incubation determines the sex of the hatchlings: below 27°C produces males, and above 31°C, females. Heat waves and global warming are creating a worrying imbalance between the sexes , jeopardizing the long-term sustainability of turtle populations.
On the other hand, rising sea levels and beach erosion directly affect traditional nesting sites. Many beaches could disappear or become unsuitable , reducing the chances of successful egg hatching. More intense and frequent tropical storms damage nests and increase chick mortality, further hindering the species' recovery.
Other threats: human activities and pollution
Beyond the direct impact of climate change, human actions exacerbate the situation . Bycatch continues to cause the death of thousands of turtles each year, which become entangled in nets or are caught unintentionally. Coastal development, urbanization, light pollution, and uncontrolled tourism disrupt reproductive cycles and increase the mortality of eggs and hatchlings.
Plastic pollution poses a silent but deadly threat. Many turtles mistake plastic objects, such as bags, for jellyfish, their usual food source. This leads to intestinal blockages, malnutrition , and even death. Several countries already have campaigns underway to reduce plastic use and promote responsible practices on beaches and in marine environments.
Migratory routes and habitat loss
Turtles travel great distances throughout their lives , following migratory routes that depend heavily on ocean currents and environmental conditions. Climate change is disrupting these patterns , disorienting the animals and forcing them to travel farther and along more dangerous routes to find suitable feeding and breeding grounds.
On several coastlines, uncontrolled tourism and illegal fishing exacerbate the pressure on turtles , which are already struggling against a scenario of progressive habitat loss and dwindling resources. Only one in a thousand hatchlings reaches adulthood, so the survival of each nest is crucial for maintaining populations.
Conservation and citizen participation
The response to this crisis requires the involvement of all sectors . Numerous countries have national conservation plans and are party to international agreements such as CITES or the Bonn Convention, which seek to protect sea turtles by creating protected areas, regulating fisheries, and combating illegal trafficking.
Conservation organizations emphasize the importance of adjusting daily habits , such as reducing plastic use, reporting illegal hunting and trade, respecting nesting beaches, participating in volunteer activities, and supporting scientific projects. Environmental education and responsible tourism contribute to safeguarding these species and their habitats.
Also noteworthy are local initiatives led by indigenous communities and volunteer groups, which promote nest recovery , the release of chicks, and beach monitoring during the nesting season.
Active participation and individual commitment are essential to ensuring the survival of these species and preserving the health of our oceans and coasts.