Today, Pampers announced that it is investing in the conservation of a globally critically endangered species, baby Hawksbill turtles (hatchlings). Hawksbills are universally beloved creatures and a valuable member of the Arabian Gulf marine ecosystem, protecting this species is of global importance.
In partnership with Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG), the Pampers “Protect Baby Turtles” Program at the P&G Dubai Mangrove Forest will comprehensively enhancenesting habitatsandfacilitate a safe environmentfor Hawksbill hatchlings,giving them the best start on their journey to the ocean.
Karim ElFiqi, Pampers Vice President at Procter & Gamble commented, “Pampers aims to give the best start in life to the babies it serves and the endangered babies who share our planet, starting with baby sea turtles. Just like the early years of a baby’s life are importanttotheir development, the first yearof a baby Hawksbill turtle’slife is also critical to their survival. We feel we can play an important role in raising awareness for the species, as well as help provide them with a safe nesting environment and one where hatchlings can move freely into the ocean.”
The Hawksbill Turtle’s global population hasreducedat an alarming rate. Protected under the Endangered Species Act and listed as “critically endangered”, the nesting population has declined by 80% due mostly to human impact and habitat loss. It is estimated there are currently only around 8,000 nesting turtles annually.Preferring sandy beaches and coastal duneswhere nesting sites are within reach, the turtleshelp maintain the health ofmarine ecosystems.
Major Ali Saqr Sultan Al Suwaidi, President of EMEG, commented, “We are proud that Dubai is one of the nesting grounds for the Hawksbill. Once they reach maturity at around 20 to 35 years of age, thefemale will return to coastal beaches of the P&G Mangrove Forest atJebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary where they were born, to nest and lay their eggs, thus completing the circle of life. With the support of Pampers, we will be able to ensure we provide them with aprotected area to nest where they can safelyemerge and return to the sea.”
This initiative aligns with the UAE Environment Vision 2021, ensuring sustainable development while preserving the environment,and is the latest in a series of innovative ecological initiatives Pampers and P&G are putting their weight behind as a Force For Good, in order to accelerate their commitment towards sustainability as well as increase community engagement for the environment.
As part of the Pampers “Protect Baby Turtles”Program, to encourage everyone toplay a part, Pampers is alsodonating10 AED on every pack sold on FirstCry.ae for the World Ocean Day event (June 8/9/10)to help protect the Hawksbill turtles. In the longer term, the program partnership will extend to turtle satellite tagging, scientific research as well as conservation awareness events.
The P&G Dubai Mangrove Forest is located in the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, a United Nations globally protected reserve that has been included in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance and is being managed by Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG).