1st International Symposium for the Conservation of Sea Turtles in the Red Sea

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is taking significant strides in safeguarding its rich marine biodiversity, particularly the iconic sea turtles that grace the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea. With Vision 2030 emphasizing sustainable tourism, the health of these magnificent creatures is more crucial than ever. The 1st International Symposium for the Conservation of Sea Turtles in the Red Sea, held in Jeddah, marked a pivotal moment in this conservation journey.

A Region of Remarkable Biodiversity and Shared Responsibility

The Red Sea is home to five sea turtle species, including the green and hawksbill turtles, which nest in significant numbers along its shores. These species depend on a complex web of interconnected habitats, from pristine beaches to vibrant coral reefs and seagrass meadows. Their migratory nature connects seven nations bordering the Red Sea, highlighting the crucial need for regional collaboration to manage shared populations and conservation efforts.

Group Photo of Symposium Participants: Building a Global Network for Sea Turtle Conservation

The Jeddah Symposium: A Platform for Science, Collaboration, and Innovation

The symposium, themed “Navigating the Future: Advancing Sea Turtle Conservation in the Red Sea through Science, Collaboration, and Innovation,” brought together experts, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across the region and beyond.

We were honored to participate in this landmark event, hosted by the General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS), which gathered an international network of leaders.

The symposium focused on essential objectives, including:

• Reviewing the current state of knowledge on Red Sea turtle populations and their habitats.

• Identifying region-specific strengths, threats, and challenges in marine conservation.

• Introducing and connecting leading experts, researchers, policymakers, and conservation practitioners.

• Establishing enduring networks for collaborative research and conservation initiatives.

• Exploring innovative approaches and emerging technologies to address pressing conservation challenges.

RED SEA PROJECT™ was proud to contribute to this critical dialogue. Our Scientific Advisor, Dr. Omar Attum from Indiana University Southeast, and our Director, Ahmed Fouad, presented recent findings and upcoming initiatives that reinforce our commitment to marine biodiversity and the resilience of the Red Sea ecosystem. This forum offered an invaluable opportunity to advance science-driven strategies and foster cross-sector partnerships.

Key Highlights and Actionable Outcomes

The four-day symposium was packed with insightful sessions and workshops, leading to a comprehensive priority list for a Conservation and Management Plan (CMP).

• Status of Sea Turtles: Presentations from various Red Sea nations provided a comprehensive overview of the current conservation status, highlighting both strengths and challenges.

• Managing Threats: Experts addressed critical threats like plastic pollution and coastal development, focusing on developing a regional action plan aligned with international frameworks.

• Innovative Solutions: Sessions explored cutting-edge technologies and strategies, including climate change adaptation and marine conservation management.

• Building Sustainable Networks: Discussions centered on citizen science programs, ranger training, and fostering collaboration across regions.

Global Representation and Initial Collaborations from the 1st International Symposium for the Conservationof Sea Turtles in the Red Sea.

Addressing Pressing Issues: Ras Baridi Case Study

A significant focus was placed on the Ras Baridi case study, addressing development pressures on nesting beaches. Issues like beach driving and plastic pollution were thoroughly examined, leading to practical recommendations:

• Beach Driving: Implementing measures like fencing, fines, and public awareness campaigns to protect nesting sites.

• Plastic Pollution: Promoting public education, organizing beach cleanups, and exploring innovative waste management solutions, including working with the NCEC and IMO to declare the Red Sea a “special area.” Participatory eco-tourism programs and community engagement in waste collection were also proposed.

• Research and Monitoring: Discussions emphasized the importance of understanding temperature transition ranges, estimating sand and nesting temperatures, and examining the effects of cement on nesting sites. Methods such as ultrasounds, blood tests, and water surveys were suggested to gather more data, stressing the importance of data collection before taking action.

• Cement Dust Sediment: Strategies for managing dust on beaches were explored, including enclosing sand piles, sieving and cleaning the sand, and experimenting with technological solutions.

Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Future

The symposium served as a catalyst for developing a Red Sea-specific action plan, inspired by the IOSEA framework and PERSGA Regional Action Plans. By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and exploring innovative solutions, the symposium has laid a strong foundation for the future of sea turtle conservation in the Red Sea.

We extend our sincere gratitude to SHAMS and all participating organizations for their gracious invitation and dedication to impactful conservation efforts. We look forward to continued collaboration and knowledge exchange, all focused on nurturing sustainable marine ecosystems in the Red Sea region. This event has underscored the commitment of Saudi Arabia and its regional partners to protect these vital marine species and their habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for this shared marine heritage. The collaborative efforts of the participants, including the development of the CMP, will be instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.