SMALL ACTIONS
BIG IMPACT!

The biggest way you can make an impact on not only the sea turtles but our entire planet is to reduce the amount of single-use plastic in our everyday lives. In Antigua & Barbuda, we are proud to have banned plastic straws and grocery bags. But every one of us, from any corner of the globe, can do more to curb the impact of plastic on our environment. 

Garbage tossed away haphazardly will always find its way to the sea and to our shorelines.  Along with responsibly discarding your trash, you can get involved with one of two amazing organizations that work hard to keep Antigua Nice.

Reach out to Adoptacoastline or AB Ocean Trust to find out how you can help.

25, 000 tons of sunscreen products enter the global waterways every year. The chemicals in most creams cause coral bleaching, deform corals, and affect hormone levels in marine mammals.  Choose sun cream with only ZINC OXIDE or TITANIUM DIOXIDE.  Better yet, use UV protective shirts to minimize your sunscreen usage.  Learn more from the Elkhorne Marine Conservancy

Sea turtles use the reflection of the moon or the horizon to navigate to the sea.  Artificial light is brighter and disorients the turtle leading it to sometimes perilous consequences.  Sea turtles are affected less by red or amber lights which is why we suggest changing your beachfront lighting to improve the chances that the sea turtles get to the ocean safely. 

It is always a thrill to come across a sea turtle and other marine life whilst snorkeling.  It is important to remember to be respectlful and maintain a good distance from sea turtles in the water.  Be careful not to chase them or impede their natural movements and instincts.

Beaches are sea turtle nesting habitats and nest can be found at any random spot, whether in the middle or close to the vegetation.  For this reason it is important to not drive on the beaches as the pressure from the weight of the vehicle can crush the unknown nest and the tire tracks trap hatchlings making it difficult for them to reach the safety of the sea.

Support ocean health by selecting sustainably sourced fish and seafood. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices harm marine ecosystems and threaten species like sea turtles. Look for certifications or local guidelines that ensure your choices protect marine life and promote long-term sustainability.  Learn more about sustainable seafood from 

Ocean Wise.

Hawksbill sea turtles are both stunning and vital to ocean ecosystems. However, they have been pushed to the brink of extinction due to hunting for their vibrant shells, often called "tortoiseshell." These shells are crafted into jewelry and souvenirs commonly sold in markets across Latin America, Asia, and other regions.  Learn how to avoid turtle shell products from Too Rare to Wear

Coral reefs are an important ecosystem for sea turtles and other marine wildlife. While diving do not touch, stand, or stabilize yourself on any corals as they are extremely fragile and sensitive to physical contact.  Touching them can transmit disease, damage, and even kill them.

Balloons may brighten a party, but they pose a deadly threat to sea turtles and other wildlife.  When they end up in the ocean many marine animals mistake them for food and their strings will become entangled. Instead, choose eco-friendly decorations.  For some ideas on how to celebrate responsibly check out Balloons Blow.

​Litter like cigarette butts, bottle caps, straws, and food wrappers often get left behind on beaches, harming sea turtles and marine life. Always clean up after yourself to keep our shores safe and pristine.

Lighting fires on the beach can harm sea turtle nests, disorient hatchlings, and damage fragile coastal ecosystems. Instead, enjoy the natural beauty of the shoreline responsibly, leaving it safe for wildlife.

Unleashed dogs can disturb nesting sea turtles, destroy nests, or harm hatchlings. To protect these vulnerable creatures and ensure a safe environment for all beachgoers, always keep your dogs on a leash and under control while enjoying the beach.

Sandcastles and holes may seem harmless, but they can become obstacles for nesting sea turtles and hatchlings trying to reach the ocean. Before leaving the beach, flatten any sand structures and fill in holes to help protect these endangered animals and keep the shoreline safe for everyone.