Launching the S.T.A.R. Project: Saving Sea Turtles in Tuscany

© Giulio Picchi

Thousands of sea turtles, whales, marine mammals, and seabirds die each year from ocean pollution, ingestion, or entanglement in marine debris. Additionally, rising human activity from tourism, coastal urbanization, and fishing threatens sea turtles and their nesting sites. Engaging the public in marine conservation and turtle protection is now more critical than ever.

The Project

TartAmare is a volunteer organization dedicated to protecting sea turtles across Tuscany. Thanks to a new grant from Tuscany Environment Foundation (TEF), the organization is launching a vital monitoring and protection project along the Tuscan coastline for the upcoming summer nesting season.

TEF funding will be used to acquire advanced equipment, including drones and data-loggers, to ensure faster and more efficient operations. Simultaneously, the TartAmare team will focus on rescuing injured turtles and spreading awareness about marine biodiversity through environmental education campaigns.

Planned Activities & Goals:

  • Trace Monitoring: Drone-assisted patrols will cover the coastline to identify and verify turtle tracks, significantly improving the accuracy and efficiency of detecting nesting activity.

  • Nest Protection: The deployment of Bluetooth data-loggers will allow for efficient, non-invasive temperature monitoring, optimizing hatching outcomes and protection.

  • Education & Awareness: Public events, educational workshops, and Open Days at the Rescue Centre will engage citizens and tourists, complemented by the installation of permanent awareness panels along the coast.

Thanks to this newly launched alliance between TEF and TartAmare, technology and community action are coming together to safeguard marine biodiversity along the Tuscan shores.