Humans Threaten Sea Turtles’ Lives

According to a survey of more than 100 marine experts worldwide conducted by researchers at the University of Exeter in the UK, 91% of sea turtles entangled in nets or debris reportedly die from causes such as severed flippers and suffocation. Sea turtles are threatened not only by nets, but also by shipwreck fragments, trash and other debris.

According to the survey, more than 1,000 sea turtles died because of fishing nets, fishing lines, cans, plastic bags, plastic chairs, wooden crates, weather observation equipment and other objects.

As the amount of trash dumped into the ocean increases, more marine life is being put at risk.

Brendan Godley, a professor of conservation science at the University of Exeter, said, “Plastic waste is particularly dangerous. One thousand turtles died within a year after becoming entangled in nets or debris. But the actual number of turtles affected is likely far higher. The problem is even more serious when trash is found near turtle hatcheries.”

He added, “Trash poses a greater threat than oil spills.”

Will McCallum, a spokesperson for Greenpeace UK, agreed with Professor Godley, saying, “Plastic that we use for a few minutes and throw away can drift through the oceans for centuries to come, becoming a trap that threatens marine life.”

Godley argued that to prevent the turtles’ plight from worsening, trash on beaches must be kept from flowing into the ocean and biodegradable materials should be used as alternatives.