The Tapará region in Santarém, located in western Pará, Brazil, has received new signage aimed at boosting the protection of turtles in their breeding areas. This initiative is part of the "Turtles in the Waters" project, which seeks to inform residents and visitors about the prohibition of capturing turtles and collecting their eggs from local beaches. The signs serve as critical reminders of the legal implications of such actions, which are classified as environmental crimes under current legislation.

Claudio Santarém, the head of inspections at the Municipal Environment Secretariat (Semma), emphasized that the law is explicit regarding the protection of wildlife. According to the environmental crime laws, capturing, killing, commercializing, or transporting wild animals, including turtles and their eggs, is prohibited. This regulatory framework not only serves to safeguard these vulnerable species but also holds accountable those who violate these laws, thereby promoting greater environmental awareness within the community.

João Mário dos Santos, the project coordinator, highlighted that the new signage also aims to increase visibility for the monitored areas within the community. By identifying the project, these signs act as a deterrent to potential offenders, thereby reinforcing community engagement and responsibility towards environmental conservation. This proactive approach reflects an ongoing commitment to preserving local biodiversity and fostering sustainable interactions with the natural habitat.