Italian Turtle Day releases six sea turtles at locations across Italy

On 14 June, the Italian Turtle Day organized by Plastic Free Onlus will see six Caretta caretta turtles released simultaneously at Genoa, Viareggio, Pescara (Marina di Pescara), Castro Marina, Stintino and Lampedusa. The event, timed ahead of World Sea Turtle Day on 16 June, aims to raise public awareness of marine biodiversity and plastic‑pollution threats.

Plastic Free Onlus, active since 2019, has rescued over 300 turtles and supported the emergence of nearly 11 000 hatchlings along Italy’s coasts. Among the released animals is “Lina”, rescued last October near Lampedusa after becoming entangled on the seabed. Rosapia Reale, the organisation’s vice‑president, said, “Seeing a turtle return to the sea means witnessing a small victory of care over indifference.” Volunteers, biologists, veterinarians, port authorities and local municipalities will assist the releases and hold informational activities for the public.