
TUI Turtle Aid Italy protects the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) along Italy’s southern coast, especially in Apulia, where climate change is causing turtles to nest on beaches that are also popular tourist spots. These new nesting areas, like those in Salento and Gargano, face threats from beach use, light pollution, and lack of awareness. The project brings together local communities, tourists, schools and beach operators to monitor and protect nests, rescue injured turtles, and raise public awareness. It also introduces a “Turtle-friendly Tourism Certification” to help tourism businesses adopt eco-friendly practices. By combining conservation with sustainable tourism, the project helps protect marine life while supporting local livelihoods.