Corporate Structure & Finance

CHURAMURA is a conservation program operated by the Okinawa Coastal Protection Association (OCPA).

Legal:

the Okinawa Coastal Protection Alliance (General Incorporated Association), a Japanese governmental registered Nonprofit Organization (NPO)

What is OCPA?

The Okinawa Coastal Protection Alliance (OCPA) is committed to protecting Okinawa’s marine and coastal environments through direct conservation, cleanup activities, environmental education, and policy advocacy. Formed in 2020 but officially recognized by the Japanese Government in 2021, and hence formed in Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture. 

OCPA began its mission by focusing on the protection of endangered sea turtles, conducting beach and underwater cleanups, and raising environmental awareness. This mission is rooted in the belief that the presence of wild sea turtles is a symbol of the rich and fragile natural ecosystem of Okinawa’s seas.

OCPA was launched with a clear and powerful purpose: to ensure that sea turtles — which have existed on Earth for millions of years — are not lost to extinction. When baby turtles hatch on Okinawa’s shores and return roughly 20 years later to lay their own eggs, OCPA hopes they will be welcomed back to a safe and healthy coastline. By protecting these animals and the environment they depend on, OCPA strives to pass on a vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem to future generations — so they too can witness the return of these extraordinary creatures.

OCPA operates through three core divisions, each addressing key aspects of marine and coastal conservation:

  • Sea turtle conservation– 24hr Rescue Operations, stranding surveys, nest protection, research etc.
  • Environmental Conservation – Regular island-wide trash removal including dune & vegetation management, as well as underwater “ghostgear” cleanup operations. 
  • Environmental Education and Community Engagement
  • Government and Tourism Advocacy

OCPA Corporate Structure


RESEARCH PARTNERS

 The Hawksbill Project (UK / Caribbean)

Marine Conservation Initiative (Canary Islands)

Churaumi Aquarium (Okinawa)

Japan Sea Turtle Association (Japan)

Taiwan Turtle Spotters (Taiwan)

 

Fundraising

Currently our whole operations are supported by individual supporters / private & corporate donations, private-sector grants, program sponsorships, product sales, paid appearances, summer camp revenue, and conservation tours.

 

Support Our Work Today

Help us to get closer to building Japan’s 1st Sea Turtle Rescue & Ocean Conservation Center!  

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