Doha: The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, through its Wildlife Development Department and in collaboration with the Public Relations and Communications Department, has launched an environmental awareness program to raise awareness about the importance of sea turtles and the need for their protection and conservation.

According to Qatar News Agency, the Ministry stressed the importance of community involvement in wildlife protection efforts, calling for collective action to safeguard sea turtles and marine environments from the threats they face. This, the Ministry noted, would help enhance biodiversity and ensure its sustainability for future generations.

The program, featuring lectures from experts and specialists in sea turtles and marine environments, aims to highlight the significance of Qatar’s marine ecosystem and its vital role in maintaining ecological balance, while also educating the public about the dangers these creatures face and ways to protect them.

The program will be delivered in all schools in northern Qatar and will run until the end of February, as part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote environmental awareness and preserve natural resources, in line with Qatar’s National Vision for Sustainable Development.

The program’s launch comes ahead of Hawksbill turtle nesting season, which begins in late March each year. This is the only species of sea turtle that nests on Qatar’s shores and is classified as one of the most endangered species globally. The Ministry’s conservation efforts have resulted in a significant increase in their population, with over 50,000 turtles recorded over the past five years.