Environmental education mobilizes summer visitors for turtle protection at Atalaia
Agency technicians guide visitors on the reproductive cycle of the species, from nesting to the moment the hatchlings break the eggs and head to the sea
Another weekend in July with the promotion of environmental education actions took place at Atalaia Beach, in Salinópolis, northeastern Pará, this Saturday (19) and Sunday (20). The initiative is carried out by the Institute for Forest Development and Biodiversity (Ideflor-Bio).
The activities occur in the area known as Ponta da Sofia, next to the barrier that prevents the entry of motor vehicles from the 3rd shortcut to the resort. This measure complies with the recommendation of the Public Ministry of Pará (MPPA), ratified by the Court of Justice of Pará (TJPA), and aims to protect one of the areas with the highest incidence of sea turtle nesting on the Pará coast.
The region currently houses a nursery with about 130 turtle eggs, protected in a monitored space 24 hours a day. Agency technicians guide visitors on the reproductive cycle of the species, from nesting to the moment the hatchlings break the eggs and head towards the sea. Access to the sandy area is allowed only for pedestrians and bathers.
Educational material is used with children
The environmental program also includes activities aimed at children, with the distribution of educational booklets, coloring pages, and games that playfully present the species of turtles that nest in the region. On weekends, Ideflor-Bio distributes sustainable kits with eco-bags, visors, reusable cups, and informational materials, focusing on raising awareness among families about the importance of preserving the coastal ecosystem.
Awareness - "The presence of families and, especially, children, in this environmental education process is essential. It is a moment of learning and creating emotional bonds with nature. We believe that those who know and understand, take care," highlights biologist Lorena Lisboa. She monitors the actions on site and considers direct contact with the environment, where the turtles reproduce, a transformative experience.
Next to the physical barrier set up to prevent vehicle circulation, the environmental education booth has become a meeting point for summer visitors, where discussion circles and workshops have sparked the interest of visitors. "It is an opportunity to teach new generations the value of nature. My daughter was delighted to learn that turtles come here to lay their eggs," said teacher Camila Rocha, who was spending the weekend at the beach with her family.
Integration - According to the director of Management and Monitoring of Conservation Units at Ideflor-Bio, Ellivelton Carvalho, the integrated work of education, enforcement, and awareness has significantly contributed to reducing environmental impacts. "Our goal is to ensure that this area continues to be a safe refuge for sea turtles. We are combining active protection with educational actions that positively involve the community and visitors," he stated.
With the reinforcement of actions during the month of July, a peak season on the Pará coast, the expectation is that hundreds of people will be made aware of the importance of respecting protected areas. The work is continuous and is part of Ideflor-Bio's institutional mission to promote the sustainable use of natural resources and the appreciation of Conservation Units in Pará.
For the president of Ideflor-Bio, Nilson Pinto, the role of preventive and educational actions contributes to the conservation of marine biodiversity. "Atalaia Beach is one of the most visited postcards of Pará, and we have a duty to reconcile this use with the protection of wildlife. The preservation of sea turtles is a priority, and environmental education is the most powerful tool we have to ensure the future of these species," he emphasized.
