Celebrating World Environment Day with Sea Turtles in Rethymno
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the ARCHELON team in Rethymno took part in a special awareness-raising event dedicated to the protection of the natural environment and the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta).
The event took place on Friday, June 5, on the beach of Rethymno, one of the most important nesting beaches for sea turtles in Greece. It was co-organized by the Municipality of Rethymno, the 2nd Experimental Kindergarten of Rethymno, and ARCHELON, attracting both residents and visitors who had the opportunity to learn more about the region’s valuable natural heritage.
The first part of the event was dedicated to creative activities prepared by students and teachers of the school. Attendees watched a theatrical performance by the children on the nesting of sea turtles and the fascinating journey of hatchlings from the nest to the sea. This was followed by two songs with dances, one in Greek and one in English, while the evening concluded with a symbolic action against light pollution, highlighting the importance of a dark night environment for the survival of hatchlings.
ARCHELON supported the event with educational activities for both children and adults. At the information stand, visitors had the opportunity to learn more about the organization’s work and support its efforts to protect the turtles in Rethymno. In addition, a sand simulation of a nest and turtle tracks helped present key information about the biology and life cycle of the species. A particularly popular activity was face painting, which delighted the younger participants.
The collaboration between the Municipality of Rethymno, the Primary School, and ARCHELON highlighted the importance of environmental education and the active involvement of the local community in protecting nature.
Together, we can ensure that the beaches of Rethymno will continue to serve as safe havens for sea turtles for generations to come.
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