Safeguarding sea turtles: TUI Care Foundation launches Turtle Aid project to promote sustainable tourism in Apulia
TUI Turtle Aid Italy will protect 3,500 hatchlings and rescue 300 injured individuals through targeted conservation measures
Project engages more than 4000 local community members, schools, and tourism businesses in marine conservation and eco-friendly practices
TUI Turtle Aid Italy responds to this challenge by integrating sea turtle conservation with responsible tourism practices. In collaboration with Italian NGO Legambiente, the project will protect over 3,500 hatchlings and rescue around 300 injured turtles, through structured beach monitoring, nest protection, and rehabilitation efforts during its 3-year implementation. Conservation teams and trained volunteers will monitor beaches, detect and safeguard nests, and collect vital data to inform long-term protection strategies. Injured turtles affected by bycatch, boat strikes, or pollution are treated at the Sea Turtle Recovery Center in Manfredonia before returning to the sea.
To align tourism with conservation, the initiative introduces a voluntary “Turtle-friendly Tourism Certification” for beachfront businesses. TUI Turtle Aid has developed a unique guideline and certification scheme with 40 criteria designed to minimise the impact of hotel operations on turtle nesting. Mandatory measures include removing obstacles from beaches at night, reducing light pollution, and raising guest awareness. At least 60 hotels and beach clubs will be engaged through assessments, training, and implementation of eco-friendly practices.
Education and awareness are central to the project: more than 4,000 community members and tourists will be educated through awareness campaigns and events, whilst snorkelers will participate in tailor-made programmes. Seasonal activities such as turtle releases, eco-tours, and 'Turtle Days' will foster local involvement and create memorable experiences that will connect visitors with marine conservation.
The initiative is part of the global TUI Turtle Aid programme which protects endangered and vulnerable sea turtles around nesting beaches and includes projects in destinations including Kenya, Cabo Verde, Turkey and Greece.
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About the TUI Care Foundation
Building on the potential of tourism as a force for good, the TUI Care Foundation supports and initiates projects which create new opportunities and contribute to thriving communities in tourism destinations all over the world. Connecting holidaymakers to good causes, it supports education and training opportunities for young people; drives the protection of natural habitats and the marine environment; and helps local communities to thrive sustainably and benefit from tourism. The TUI Care Foundation builds on strong partnerships with local and international organisations to create meaningful and long-lasting impact. The independent charitable organisation was founded by TUI, one of the world's leading tourism businesses, and is based in the Netherlands. Website: www.tuicarefoundation.com
About Legambiente
Legambiente is an Italian environmental organisation, established in 1980. Its core mission is the protection of the environment, natural landscapes, and public health. The association promotes awareness campaigns on critical issues such as climate change, pollution, biodiversity conservation, and the circular economy. With a widespread presence across Italy, it operates through local hubs that actively engage volunteers and citizens. Legambiente develops educational initiatives in schools aimed at fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability. It undertakes scientific monitoring projects, including Goletta Verde, which assesses the quality of coastal waters, and Carovana dei Ghiacciai, which documents the retreat of Alpine glaciers and highlights the impacts of the climate crisis. Legambiente works in partnership with public institutions and private entities to advocate for improved environmental policies. It publishes comprehensive reports and dossiers to inform public opinion and guide decision-making. Committed to promoting sustainable lifestyles, it is an active member of international networks. The organisation also conducts beach monitoring activities to track and protect sea turtle nesting, and it manages a dedicated rescue and rehabilitation centre for marine turtles in Manfredonia (Apulia).
