Sea turtles, ancient creatures that have survived for over 100 million years, are now in critical danger. Leatherback and loggerhead turtles, both of which nest on South Africa’s beaches, are classified as Vulnerable and Critically Endangered. Over the past 50 years, sea turtle populations have declined by a staggering 90%. Currently, 6 out of 7 species are listed as endangered or critically endangered, largely due to human activity. Without urgent action, these species face extinction.

South Africa’s coastline is a crucial nesting ground for loggerhead and leatherback turtles, hosting 65% of loggerhead nests in the Southwest Indian Ocean. Yet the numbers are alarmingly low—leatherbacks account for only 50–100 nests annually. Each nest contains around 110 eggs, but just 10% hatch due to threats like predators, habitat destruction, and light pollution. Worse still, 70% of hatchlings are disoriented by artificial lights, which draw them away from the ocean. And even for those that reach the water, only 1 in 1,000 survives to adulthood.

Sea turtles are not only a wonder of nature but also play a vital role in marine ecosystems. They help maintain healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs, supporting biodiversity and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Protecting them could also boost South Africa’s economy through eco-tourism. Turtle tourism generates $2 billion globally each year, and by safeguarding turtles, South Africa could strengthen its standing as an eco-tourism destination.

We propose Turtle Safe Day, a simple yet impactful initiative to protect these endangered species. On key nights during nesting and hatching seasons, beaches will be closed to allow turtles to nest in peace and hatchlings to safely make their way to the ocean. To raise awareness, we suggest placing "Turtle Beach" signs at critical nesting areas to educate visitors about the importance of these beaches. Additionally, we can organize community beach clean-ups on nights identified by specialists as the most likely hatching times. This effort will ensure hatchlings are not obstructed by trash or entangled in plastic, further increasing their chances of survival.

Time is running out for these magnificent creatures. With only 1 in 1,000 hatchlings surviving, we must act now to ensure their future. They have endured for millions of years, surviving mass extinctions—don’t let our generation be the one that lets them disappear. Join us in creating Turtle Safe Day and help protect these ancient mariners and the ecosystems they support. Together, we can make a difference!