WHO WE ARE
COASTS (Costa Rican Alliance for Sea Turtle Conservation & Science) is a Costa Rica–based grassroots organisation dedicated to the protection of sea turtles and the habitats they call home.
Grounded in science and powered by collaboration, we study and protect sea turtle populations across their nesting, mating, and feeding sites while restoring critical habitats, such as seagrass meadows and coral reefs.
But we don’t work alone. As an alliance, we bring together scientists, students, NGOs, and institutions to co-create solutions for the conservation of sea turtles. We believe that protecting sea turtles requires more than research & actions—it takes connection. Connection between ecosystems and species, between science and action, and between people and places. That’s why we work to expand and strengthen our alliances—for the benefit of turtles, coastal habitats, and all who depend on them.
MISSION
COASTS protects sea turtles through scientific research, targeted conservation actions, habitat restoration, and bold, cross-sector collaboration, recognising that thriving sea turtle populations sustain thriving ecosystems.
VISION
We envision a future where sea turtles thrive in healthy coastal ecosystems, supported by a robust alliance of scientists, local stakeholders, and institutions. By protecting turtle habitats and understanding the human–wildlife interface, we strive for resilient coastal ecosystems and lasting conservation impact.
CORE VALUES
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Science at the Core: We lead with rigorous, applied research to guide every action.
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Ecosystem-Based Conservation: We restore and protect the habitats sea turtles depend on—from nesting beaches to seagrass and coral reefs.
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Radical Collaboration: We unite diverse stakeholders—researchers, local stakeholders, students, NGOs, and decision-makers—under one alliance.
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Action-Oriented: We translate knowledge into real-world conservation outcomes.
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Integrity & Evolution: We act transparently and adapt based on evidence and context
FOUNDING STORY OF COASTS
In 2014, Dr. Christine Figgener gathered several local veterans of sea turtle conservation and research efforts in Costa Rica to form a new grassroots alliance, aiming to empower local research and data-driven conservation efforts to improve the well-being of sea turtles in the country.