At The Happy Turtle Straw, our mission goes beyond providing sustainable alternatives to plastic. We are deeply committed to protecting marine life and reducing plastic pollution. Every time you choose one of our eco-friendly straws, you are directly contributing to global initiatives aimed at saving endangered turtles.
Supporting Turtle Repopulation Programs
One of the key organizations we support is the Protection et Récupération des Tortues (PRT), an association dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and preserving turtles in need. Since its founding in 1994, PRT has been a pioneer in turtle conservation, ensuring that abandoned and endangered turtles have a second chance at life.
PRT was established by passionate experts, including herpetologist Jean Garzoni, biologist Olivier Lasserre, and Jean-Marc Ducotterd, the president of the Swiss Community of Interest for Turtles. Their shared vision led to the creation of the Centre Emys, Switzerland’s only large-scale turtle rescue and conservation facility. Today, the center is home to around 3,000 turtles, with a capacity to host up to 5,000.
The Protection et Récupération des Tortues (PRT) association, active for over 25 years, has the primary mission of rescuing turtles whose owners have abandoned them. These animals are often released into the wild when no other solution is available, which can disrupt local ecosystems. PRT provides a second chance for these turtles, preventing them from negatively impacting their new environments. Recognized as a public utility since 2013, PRT operates the only facility of its kind in Switzerland.
(Source: https://www.tortue.ch)
Centre Emys: A Sanctuary for Turtles
The Centre Emys in Chavornay currently houses approximately 3,000 turtles. With lifespans ranging from 50 to 130 years, these turtles require long-term care. The center has the capacity to accommodate up to 5,000 turtles, allowing PRT to continue its vital mission of turtle rescue and rehabilitation. Beyond its conservation efforts, the center has a strong educational focus, raising awareness among visitors—including schoolchildren and students—about the needs and characteristics of turtles. It also plays a crucial role in preserving Switzerland’s only native turtle species: the European pond turtle, or Cistude.
(Source: https://www.tortue.ch)
The Cistude
The Cistude (European pond turtle) is the only turtle species native to Switzerland. Unfortunately, its population has been in decline due to habitat destruction, pollution, and competition from invasive species. Once widespread across wetland areas, the species is now mostly found in a few isolated locations. The fragmentation of its natural habitat has made it difficult for populations to thrive and expand.
Conservation efforts at Centre Emys focus on protecting and repopulating this rare species, ensuring that it continues to thrive in its natural environment. The center provides an ideal habitat for Cistudes, simulating their natural wetland environment while also offering protection from predators and human interference.
Efforts include breeding programs, habitat restoration, and reintroduction initiatives aimed at strengthening wild populations. Additionally, educational programs help raise awareness about the importance of preserving this native species, encouraging local communities to get involved in conservation activities.
By providing a safe haven and rehabilitating individuals for reintroduction, the center plays a crucial role in maintaining Switzerland’s delicate biodiversity.
(Source: https://www.tortue.ch)
Education and Awareness
Beyond rescue efforts, PRT is committed to education. Every Saturday morning, volunteers at Centre Emys provide guided tours and educational sessions to raise awareness about the importance of turtle conservation.
Schools, students, and environmental groups visit the center to learn about the unique characteristics and needs of turtles. This initiative helps foster a new generation of environmentally conscious individuals dedicated to wildlife preservation.
Turtles play a vital role in marine and freshwater ecosystems. However, human activities have significantly endangered their populations. Issues such as habitat destruction, illegal pet trade, and plastic pollution threaten their survival.
Many pet turtles are abandoned in the wild, where they disrupt native ecosystems. PRT works tirelessly to prevent these ecological imbalances by rehabilitating and caring for these animals.
(Source: https://www.tortue.ch)
How Your Choice Makes a Difference
At The Happy Turtle Straw, we believe that small actions can lead to significant change. By choosing our sustainable straws, you are not just reducing plastic waste—you are also helping fund organizations like PRT. With each straw used, you contribute to the rescue, rehabilitation, and repopulation of endangered turtles worldwide.
PRT relies solely on donations, memberships, and small revenue streams from educational activities to continue its mission. Unlike other conservation programs, it does not receive financial aid from the government. Your support—whether through using our products, visiting Centre Emys, or making direct donations—ensures the survival of countless turtles.
Join us in making a difference. Choose sustainable solutions and help protect marine life, one straw at a time!
