It is World Sea Turtle Day, and Trinidad and Tobago is marking the occasion with renewed action on marine conservation.
Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism Satyakama Maharaj, joined by Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Colin Neil Gosine, met with the Turtle Village Trust, a network of 21 turtle conservation groups, on Monday.
The Ministry, along with Executive Director Dr. Allan Bachan and Vice-Chairman Len Peters of the Trust, outlined the country’s critical role in global sea turtle protection. They noted that Trinidad and Tobago serves as nesting grounds for five of the world’s seven sea turtle species. These include the green, leatherback, hawksbill, olive ridley, and loggerhead turtles.
The meeting focused on boosting sustainable ecotourism, empowering coastal communities, and protecting biodiversity while supporting inclusive economic growth.
Minister Maharaj reaffirmed the country’s commitment to marine biodiversity, referencing Trinidad and Tobago’s obligations under several international environmental treaties.