LIGHT POLLUTION EFFECT ON GREEN

SEA TURTLES

By: Ann Francis

Overview

The green sea turtle What is light pollution What’s the threat Prevention & solutions Conclusion

The Green Sea Turtle Warm subtropical and tropical waters Endangered since 1982 Around 20 years to reach sexual maturity About 1 in 1,000 survive to sexual maturity 80-100 year life span Females breed every 3-4 years 75-200 eggs in a nest

What is light pollution? “Skyglow” Biggest threat to hatchlings Bright lighting that is near the beach Usually caused by large hotels or

condos in a populated area

What is the threat?

Hatchlings wander inland instead of towards the beach

Disorientation, dehydration & death Slimmer chance of survival

Prevention & Solutions

STOP (Sea Turtles Oversight Protection)

Many cities have adopted the Turtle Nesting Protection Ordinance

Ocean front lighting is prohibited under Florida law, May 1st –October 31st

Fines up to $100,000

Conclusion

Many sea turtles die every year from light pollution

This can easily be stopped Inspiring Video

Works Cited

http://www.conserveturtles.org/seaturtleinformation.php?page=lighting

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/endangered-green-sea-turtles-nesting-season-threatened-by-light-pollution/

Questions??