What Can I Do as a Scientist and Citizen in Marine Conservation?

By Dr. Connie, Marine Science Team of Hong Kong Maritime Museum (HKMM)

As a sea turtle scientist and a responsible citizen, I often reflect on our collective role in conserving our planet and wildlife. It is heartbreaking to see the stomach of a young green turtle stuffed with plastic garbage when I examined its dead body or watch the viral video of a plastic straw being removed from a sea turtle’s nose. All these starkly illustrate the devastating impact of human activities to marine life and highlights the urgent need for change. Sea turtles not only play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems but also embody the interconnectedness between nature and us. In Asia, sea turtles hold deep cultural significance, symbolizing longevity, wisdom, and connection to the ocean.

Understanding Sea Turtles Through Science

Since my PhD study, I have been focusing on understanding the habitat use and migratory patterns of green turtles in the China Region. By satellite tracking and genetic analysis, we can monitor their movements and identify connectivity of the foraging and nesting sites, separated by thousands of kilometres. My studies have revealed that key habitats are located along the coasts of Hainan Island, Guangdong, Fujian and Taiwan, the Ryukyu Islands of Japan and Dao Bach Long Vi in Vietnam. Can you guess where the natal origins of the green turtles foraging in the South China Region? Their potential birthplaces are as far as the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, Japan and Taiwan! (You can check out more details at Ng et al. (2018) : link)

This research not only provides invaluable data but also highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in these areas where human activities are common. Every piece of information contributes to a larger puzzle of the baseline knowledge that can guide policy and habitat management.

Photo 1. Connie with a Green Turtle during a sampling trip in Gangkou National Sea Turtle Nature Reserve, mainland China

Photo 2. Connie attaching a satellite tag on a Green Turtle for tracking its movement

Rescue and Rehabilitation: A Community Effort

During my time with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, I worked with the Ocean Park Hong Kong in rescuing injured or stranded sea turtles, providing medical care, and eventually releasing them back into the wild. This is where citizen involvement becomes crucial. Many of the turtles were found by the public. If you encounter a stranded turtle, report it immediately to the authority. Your prompt action can save a life. Additionally, please consider volunteering with local rescue organisations or participating in beach clean-ups to reduce marine debris that poses a threat to marine life.

Photo 3. A rehabilitated Green Turtle being released (Source: https://www.news.gov.hk/en/categories/environment/html/2011/05/20110509_120605.shtml )

Engaging the Public by the Power of Education and Communication

“Wow, Really?!”, most public were surprised when I told them there are sea turtles living in Hong Kong waters. How well do you know our ocean neighbours?

As the Head of the Marine Discovery Centre at the Hong Kong Maritime Museum (HKMM), I am committed to enhancing ocean literacy and marine conservation through interdisciplinary collaboration with partners, engaging a wider community involvement in conservation effort. Education is a power tool to influence people. We strive to re-connect human-ocean connection and raise awareness about marine conservation through Marine Science Gallery and our engaging activities. Visitors and students can also learn more about how we can save the ocean by the educational worksheets featuring “Mother Green Turtle MIA” available at the gallery and on our website. By fostering curiosity and understanding in young minds, we build a generation of informed citizens who can advocate for marine conservation.

Photo 4. Connie giving a talk to the public on sea turtles at HKMM

The Importance of Regional Collaboration

Conserving sea turtles, the migratory species that wander in the vast ocean, requires regional and international collaboration. Leveraging the international connection of the maritime museums, coupled with my voluntary role as the Regional Co-Vice Chair of the East Asia Region for the Marine Turtle Specialist Group of the IUCN, I have maintained an active involvement in developing collaboration across nations and cultures in marine conservation.

Through these networks, we can exchange vital findings and experiences and discuss effective conservation strategies. This collaborative spirit is essential for addressing the myriad threats sea turtles are facing. Most importantly, to sustain the long-term conservation power by connecting with a growing community of committed scientists, educators and conservationists.

Photo 5. Connie co-hosting the East Asia Regional Meeting at the International Sea Turtle Symposium, Thailand

Photo 6. Connie co-convening a Working Group for Sea Turtle and Marine Mammal Conservation in the 7th Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences (Source: Xiamen University)

Your Action in Conservation

As both a scientist and a citizen, I urge you to act now. Whether it’s supporting local conservation initiatives, educating yourself and others about the challenges the ocean is facing, or simply enjoying and respecting our marine environments, every effort counts.

HKMM is conveniently located at Central Pier No. 8. Please come visit us, experience the discovery journey, join our marine science education events and become part of the alliance to build a sustainable future together for our well-being and that of future generations. Conservation starts with you—your actions today can make a difference tomorrow. Together, we can make a significant impact and protect our maritime heritage together!

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Ocean Guardians Series - Embark on an underwater adventure in Hong Kong with Dr. Connie  

Follow Dr. Connie (Head of Marine Discovery Centre) and her marine friends as they dive into exciting underwater missions. Along the journey, Dr. Connie interacts with various local sea creatures and uses special magic tools to carry out rescue operations. The story highlights the impact of human activities on the marine environment, inspiring audiences to reflect and take action to protect our precious oceans.  

In this episode, Dr. Connie receives an SOS signal from marine animals at the Tung Ping Chau Coral Tower . She discovers her friend, the green sea turtle mother, entangled in fishing nets and plastic bags! Join Dr. Connie to see how she uses her magic tools to rescue the green sea turtle!