CRAM Foundation study finds plastic ingestion in Mediterranean sea turtles

The Barcelona-based CRAM Foundation reported treating 98 sea turtles in the past year, noting significant plastic ingestion among the animals. An analysis of 63 samples, including 58 fecal samples and 5 necropsies, revealed that 74% of the specimens contained plastic particles. While plastic was not identified as the direct cause of death in necropsy cases, it was linked to severe enteritis, which induces pain, anorexia, and immune system suppression. Furthermore, 64% of young Caretta Caretta turtles were found to be affected by plastic fragments. Beyond ingestion, experts highlighted the chemical risks posed by plastic acting as a carrier for toxic substances. In 2025, the foundation also addressed 10 incidents where turtles were entangled in marine debris or discarded fishing gear. The findings emphasize the high levels of pollution currently threatening the Mediterranean marine ecosystem.