Why we should stop eating sea turtles
Marine scientist, Dr Michelle Cazabon-Mannette, argues that turtles alive are far more valuable than for food. This loggerhead turtle was recently stranded on the east coast of Trinidad with a possible boat strike injury. "Sammy" is currently undergoing treatment (Ryan P. Mannette) In Tobago we have a taste for turtle meat, and many of us think it is a luxury that is our right to enjoy. But it is a luxury that right now we have to learn to forego. Why? 1) Sea turtles are valuable in many ways, and we want future generations to be able to enjoy and benefit from these values. Sea turtle products such as meat, eggs and shells have been consumed by man for thousands of years. Prehistoric peoples in the Caribbean exploited sea turtles substantially, for at least 4,000 years. There is no denying these animals are a valuable source of protein. We say sea turtles have consumptive value because their products can be consumed. Sea turtles can also be co...