A group of 28 countries have agreed on recommendations to cut the number of accidental deaths of endangered sea turtles.

The countries agreed on recommendations for reducing accidental sea turtle deaths during a recent a technical consultation organized by the Fisheries Department of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The meeting, which was held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 29 November to 2 December 2004, resulted in a set of recommendations on reducing sea turtle deaths, including the wider use of new technologies and improvements in fishing practices. Other specific recommendations included: more sea turtle population assessments; the production by the FAO of a comprehensive set of fishing guidelines on how to avoid capturing sea turtles and on proper release of any turtles trapped alive; and specific steps to address the challenges faced by developing countries in implementing turtle conservation plans. Delegates also agreed to share information between national and international agencies in the conservation and management of sea turtles. The recommendations will be reviewed in March 2005 by the 94 countries that make up FAO’s Committee of Fisheries.
Links to additional information
Countries Agree on Steps for Reducing Accidental Deaths of Endangered Sea Turtles in Fisheries, FAO press release, 22 December 2004
Advance Draft Copy of the Technical Consultation’s Report