Bridges Trade BioRes • Volume 4 • Number 10 • 28th May 2004
Study Highlights Economic Consequences of Sea Turtle Decline
Discuss this articleShare your views with other visitors, and read what they have to say
A study by the environment group WWF, the first global assessment of the economic value of sea turtle, reports that a decline in sea turtle population would threaten jobs, tourism and coastal economies, especially in developing countries. According to the report “Money Talks: Economic Aspects of Marine Turtle Use and Conservation“, marine turtle tourism brings in almost three times as much money as the sale of turtle products including meat, leather and eggs. Six of the world’s seven marine turtle species are endangered or critically endangered. “The continued decline of sea turtle populations will have serious economic consequences, particularly for coastal communities in developing countries,” noted Dr. Susan Liberman, director of WWF’s Global Species Program. Although all marine turtle species are listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) prohibiting any international commercial trade by more than 160 signatory countries, illegal trade and trade between non-signatories continues. “Developers, politicians and community leaders should start to see marine turtles as a valuable asset, generating revenue and jobs,” said Carlos Drews, WWF regional coordinator for marine turtle conservation in Latin America and the Caribbean.
“Sea Turtles Worth More Alive Than Dead,” ENS, 26 May 2004.
Add a comment
Enter your details and a comment below, then click Submit Comment. We’ll review and publish the best comments.