We have all heard (and seen) that in some parts of the world our coral reefs are in trouble and in need of our help. As divers, we have the unique skills and ability to access parts of the ocean that others can’t. We have a responsibility to not only be ambassadors for the ocean, but to also help in the conservation and restoration of our underwater world.
PADI Dive Shops Working To Protect our Oceans
Many PADI® Dive Shops from across the world frequently work with divers to restore our coral reefs and protect our oceans. For example, here at Scubaçao, we have been extremely proactive in ocean conservation with regular environmental events, clean ups, Project AWARE Dive Against Debris,
seminars and education based dive training.
The Coral Restoration Project
Recently we started working with Reef Renewal Curaçao, inviting the local dive community to get together in an effort to begin coral restoration in an important area that is used regularly by divers.
How Can You Get Involved?
Just by being a diver you already possess the basic skills required to execute a successful coral restoration dive. As for the other needed skills, you can do the PADI Coral Reef Conservation Specialty course, hold coral restoration workshops or have connections to these initiatives within the community.
What if you’re not heading to tropical waters anytime soon? As divers we have the unique opportunity to be a voice for the ocean, to teach others about ocean preservation and conservation. Educating others about the importance of reducing your carbon footprint, recycling plastic, reducing debris, choosing sustainable seafood and protecting our ocean, is critical to restoring our coral reefs.
