Jumeirah today celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP), by hosting a vital panel discussion on the collective efforts needed to protect the ocean.
The panel underscored that marine conservation is a shared global challenge requiring collaboration among governments, organisations, businesses, and individuals. They also shared examples of innovative solutions and best practices for ocean conservation, highlighting the critical role of education, awareness-raising, and youth engagement in shaping a sustainable future for the ocean.
Razan Al Mubarak, President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), praised the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project's 20-year commitment to marine conservation, highlighting its role in corporate environmental responsibility.
Barbara Lang-Lenton, Director of Aquarium at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and DTRP lead, celebrated the milestone, emphasizing its significance for biodiversity efforts in Dubai and the UAE. She stressed the growing importance of marine conservation amid rising coastal tourism, urging industry-wide responsibility to protect marine ecosystems for future generations.
Speaking to the importance of connecting people to the ocean and educating them on how they can make a difference, Jo Ruxton, Founder and Director of Ocean Generation, said:
“My mission is to bridge the gap between people and the ocean. Everyone needs to understand how vital a healthy ocean is to our survival; it supports all life on our blue planet. The ocean is also our biggest ally when it comes to climate change, yet we recklessly exploit and damage this fragile ecosystem. By empowering individuals to take collective action daily, we can drive significant positive change. We need to come together to protect and preserve our ocean for both current and future generations, which is why discussions such as these are so important.”
Emphasising the need for immediate action and the impact of increased awareness efforts, Dr. Juan Antonio Romero, Mission Blue Scientist, Marine Biologist, and Filmmaker, said:
"In order to protect ourselves and the world as we see it today we have to protect the ocean. Without the ocean there would be no life. Education, public awareness, and science are part of bridging the gap between the ocean and us. Providing tangible ways in which individuals can support this cause is also paramount in our mission to preserve and protect these precious ecosystems. Together, through heightened awareness and collective action, we can make a difference and ensure a sustainable future for our ocean and all marine life."
Jumeirah, with community members and partners, released 63 rehabilitated turtles, including Hawksbills, Green turtles, and Loggerheads, marking over 2,175 turtles released since DTRP started in 2004. Among them was Barney, a 31kg Hawksbill found injured in Jebel Ali. After treatment, Barney made a full recovery and was joyfully returned to the ocean.
Looking ahead to World Sea Turtle Day this Sunday, a range of sea turtle conservation activities have been organised across Jumeirah’s portfolio. In Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, in partnership with the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), The National Aquarium, and Yas Sea World Research and Rescue, hosted an intimate release of 50 sea turtles on its pristine beach. Additionally, guests at Jumeirah Olhahali Island, Maldives will enjoy a mix of complimentary and bookable turtle-themed experiences. These will include a marine talk from the in-house marine biologist, guided snorkelling around Olhahali Island's house reef, sand sculpture making, sustainable seafood dinners at its all-day dining pool-side restaurant, Glow, yoga sessions with turtle inspired poses at Talise Spa, and unique room decorations, all aimed at promoting sea turtle conservation and awareness.
Jumeirah Al Naseem launched a turtle-inspired stay in collaboration with DTRP for its 20th anniversary. The experience includes themed amenities, a glimpse into the project's conservation efforts, and an ocean-themed afternoon tea. A portion of proceeds supports DTRP's cause. Dubai emphasizes environmental sustainability and biodiversity in its development strategy, evident through initiatives like Jumeirah's partnership with DTRP, reflecting a commitment to corporate social responsibility and ecosystem preservation.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
