When Conservation Becomes Action: 20 Million Sea Turtles Returned to the Ocean

At the entrance, the first thing to welcome us was a photographic exhibition by Erick Ruiz. The images—arranged like a silent prelude—captured the daily work of the turtle guardians: long nights, constant patrols, and that singular moment when a sea turtle makes her way up the beach to nest. From that point on, the message was clear: this wasn’t only a conference. It was the celebration of a collective effort that has left a lasting imprint on the ocean.

20 Million Sea Turtles: The Reason for the Gathering

The purpose of the gathering was powerful and, at the same time, deeply moving: the celebration of 20 million sea turtles returned to the ocean—back to marine life. It’s a number that impresses, but it takes on its true meaning when you understand everything behind it.

Throughout the day, key reflections were shared on the importance of sea turtles and the essential role they play in the balance of our oceans. There was also talk of a scenario no one wants to imagine: what would happen if these species disappeared, and how their loss would directly impact marine ecosystems.

A central part of the dialogue focused on the awareness-building work that helps more people feel compelled to become part of this project. Creating empathy, informing, and bringing more people on board becomes a key piece in keeping programs like these alive.

Raising Awareness to Conserve: Bringing More People into the Cause

The project’s territorial reach was also shared: it operates across different municipalities in the state of Quintana Roo, showing that conservation doesn’t happen in just one place. It requires coordination, consistency, and an ongoing presence in the field. In this context, it was emphasized that initiatives like this need society’s support. Contributing to the sea turtle conservation program is not only an act of environmental responsibility, but also a way to ensure this effort has continuity and a future.

Throughout the remarks, certain phrases lingered. Leo spoke of the importance of meeting objectives and continuing to fight even when the path becomes complex. Rodolfo, for his part, put it with complete clarity: “we are the only ones who can improve their quality of life.” Brief, but powerful messages that capture the spirit of the entire project.

Conservation as a Collective Effort

The event was coordinated by Flora, Fauna y Cultura de México, A.C., an organization that highlighted one of its programs with direct impact in the community and across the Mexican Caribbean region. During the ceremony, thanks were extended to the many associations, institutions, and organizations that form part of this joint effort, including the Xcacel Xcacelito Sea Turtle Sanctuary, Fundación Eco Bahía, Amigos de Sian Ka’an, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), the Secretariat of the Navy, municipal and state authorities, as well as partner hotels and environmental organizations.

The welcome was delivered by Emma Dietz, Director of Operations at Xel-Há, who emphasized the pride of being part of a project that today celebrates tangible results—and, above all, a story rooted in commitment. Afterwards, Lupita Quintana, Executive Director of Flora, Fauna y Cultura de México, A.C., shared the journey of a program that formally began in 1996, went through different stages, and now totals 30 years of uninterrupted operation.

In her message, she recalled how the program has evolved into a national and international benchmark, with actions ranging from the protection of beaches, nesting females, clutches, and hatchlings, to scientific research, environmental education, and technical training. She also offered special recognition to the turtle guardians—women and men who devote entire months to patrolling beaches, caring for nests, and accompanying the birth of new hatchlings. Thanks to their work, and to those who transform records into science, these ancient species are better understood today.

Looking Ahead: On to the Next 20 Million

Celebrating 20 million hatchlings does not mean the mission is complete. Sea turtles remain endangered, and the challenges continue. This gathering served not only to reflect on what has been achieved, but also to renew the collective commitment to keep protecting them—because the future of the next 20 million will, quite literally, depend on all of us.

The day closed with a clear and shared idea: conservation is a constant effort, and every action matters. On to the next 20 million.

— Sea turtle photographs by Erick Ruiz.