TUI Sea the Change Turkey Restores Two Hundred Thousand Square Metres of Coastal Habitat, Protecting Endangered Mediterranean Monk Seals and Promoting Sustainable Tourism Growth in Southwest Turkey

The Mediterranean Sea, which is considered one of the most crowded water bodies in the world, faces increasing stress on its coastal ecosystem and endangered wildlife. In the southwestern coast of Turkey, for instance, the Mediterranean monk seal, which is considered Endangered according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, depends on undisturbed coastal caves and seagrass beds for its breeding and resting activities. With less than 100 Mediterranean monk seals found along the Turkish coastline, boat traffic, anchor damage, coastal development, and lack of awareness still pose serious threats.

Where tourism is considered a major economic driver in destinations, implementing sustainable tourism practices as well as protecting marine ecosystems presents challenges but also represents a significant opportunity. Following a successful first phase that was launched in 2024, TUI Sea the Change Turkey, in collaboration with Akdeniz Koruma Derneği, a Mediterranean conservation organization, is launching Phase 2 aimed at scaling up habitat conservation and engaging with the tourism industry.

Large-Scale Habitat Restoration and Monitoring

The project protects and restores approximately 200,000 square metres of coastal and marine habitat, including critical monk seal caves and Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows, spanning from Fethiye–Göcek to Kaş. Monk seal monitoring continues in key coastal caves using camera-based systems, now complemented by acoustic monitoring that combines underwater sound recordings with visual data to track seal behavior and habitat use.

The Sarıgerme seagrass monitoring station conducts biannual assessments, while restoration in Aşı Bay addresses damage caused by anchoring. Regular patrols and surveillance reinforce protection efforts, supporting advocacy for the future designation of Sarıgerme–Aşı Bay as a Marine Protected Area.

Tourism Sector Engagement Strengthens Sustainable Practices

Engaging the tourism sector remains central to the initiative. Working with 20 tourism-related organisations, including hotels, marinas, and boat operators, the programme promotes conservation-friendly practices. The Conservation-Friendly Boats programme has been expanded to reduce underwater noise, prevent disturbance near monk seal habitats, and protect seagrass meadows from anchor damage.

By linking tourism with marine conservation, the project encourages visitors to participate in sustainable activities, such as low-impact kayaking trips to explore seagrass meadows, demonstrating how tourism can support environmental stewardship while providing unique experiences.

Education and Community Involvement for Sustainable Tourism

The initiative emphasizes education and awareness for residents and tourists alike. Over 245 local participants received marine conservation training, building long-term capacity for ecosystem protection. An estimated 4,000 tourists engaged in sustainable tourism experiences, while a dedicated children’s programme introduced an educational card game highlighting endangered species and key marine habitats.

In addition, 600 schoolchildren participated in workshops delivered through schools, festivals, and community events. Hotel-based awareness campaigns further emphasized the importance of monk seal conservation and healthy seagrass meadows, reinforcing sustainable tourism principles within the hospitality sector.

Driving Sustainable Tourism Growth Along the Coast

By combining science-based habitat protection with tourism engagement, TUI Sea the Change Turkey demonstrates how the tourism industry can actively contribute to marine conservation rather than exert pressure on fragile ecosystems. The project supports the survival of the Mediterranean monk seal, strengthens coastal habitat protection, and promotes responsible tourism practices that directly benefit local communities and the broader tourism sector.

These efforts highlight how sustainable tourism growth can coexist with environmental protection, creating a model where hotels, marinas, and tour operators align operations with conservation goals while enhancing the visitor experience.

International Collaboration and Marine May Awareness

The TUI Sea the Change project in Turkey is just one of the TUI Sea the Change projects aimed at protecting marine environments in several countries like Mallorca, Mozambique, and Indonesia. The start of this project takes place amid the Marine May activities of the TUI Care Foundation, a month-long initiative focused on ocean preservation through awareness campaigns and educating people on the importance of sustainable tourism.

By means of restoring habitats, engaging tourists and raising their awareness and educating communities, TUI Sea the Change in Turkey gives an obvious demonstration of how tourism may be beneficial economically and environmentally by preserving endangered species and developing sustainable tourism in the country.

Image Source: TUI