The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Pakistan recently organised a beach cleanup event at Turtle Beach in Hawks Bay, where local children took part in releasing newly hatched green turtle hatchlings into the sea, marking the start of their life journey.
The event also focused on removing waste left by visitors, including plastic bags, juice cartons, thermocol plates, and abandoned fishing nets hidden in the sand. Children from Hawks Bay, Sands Pit, and surrounding neighborhoods actively participated in the cleanup and conservation efforts.
Dr. Babar Hussain, Natural Resource Management Coordinator at IUCN Pakistan, explained that involving children was intended to raise awareness about marine life protection and environmental responsibility. “These young participants are the future guardians of our oceans,” he remarked.
He further highlighted the severe impact marine pollution has had on aquatic ecosystems and coastal habitats such as mangroves. Referring to the 2003 Tasman Spirit oil spill, Dr. Hussain pointed out that olive ridley turtles have disappeared from Karachi’s waters since the disaster.
This community-driven initiative not only promotes conservation but also empowers the younger generation to take active roles in preserving marine biodiversity for years to come.
