Swim in the Sea, Save the Turtles

Maritime authorities met with environmentalists on Tuesday to discuss how best to balance beachside development and the needs of local wildlife.

A total of 40 experts in various fields and government agencies met in a Thalang district hotel, near Phuket to discuss the plight of sea turtles in Thailand.

The development of beaches, along with refuse left by tourists including plastic bags and waste water have directly contributed to a decline in local turtle’s egg laying.

Sea turtles have become the focus of numerous conservation efforts but many groups trying to protect the local wildlife have been hampered by a lack of qualified personnel, funds and expertise in the area.

Although tourism, in part, has contributed to the problem, for many organizations, taking advantage of the expertise and volunteer work of passing travelers is one way to help save the sea turtles.

Lost Horizons Asia is one organization combining tourism with conservation. The group offers tourists the opportunity to enjoy excellent Thai food, a beautiful beach, lessons in Thai culture, massage and yoga and contribute to conservation efforts, all on the remote island of Phra Tong (also known as Golden Buddha Island.)

Naucrates is an Italian organization inviting volunteers to Koh Khao and Koh Phra Thong, just north of Phuket to learn to scuba dive, see turtles in their natural environment and work towards their preservation.

There are plenty of opportunities to help out with the cause, all while enjoying Thailand’s beautiful coast and lovely islands.