PADI and PADI AWARE Foundation have joined forces with Swiss prestige watchmaker Blancpain with the aim of meaningfully increasing the number of marine protected areas (MPAs) across the planet over the coming decade.
Announced at the 9th Annual World Ocean Summit in 2022, innovative minds from business, science, governmental and non-profit sectors heard of our combined strategy to contribute to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
As part of PADI’s Blueprint for Ocean Action, we aim to protect at least 30% of our shared ocean by 2030. To do so, PADI AWARE Foundation, together with the generous support of Blancpain, has launched the ADOPT THE BLUE™ program.
ADOPT THE BLUE is a re-imagination of AWARE’s previous Adopt a Dive Site Program. The all-new program sees the dive site adoption initiative scaling up in terms of the number of dive sites targeted and the scope of conservation issues tackled.
Together with over 6,600 PADI Dive Centers and Resorts and 128,000 Professionals, we are creating a network of 10,000 adopted dive sites by 2025.
This critical network will serve as a driving force for establishing new marine protected areas around the globe. Participants in the program will be called upon to take targeted local action for measurable global impact. This direct approach to local conservation challenges will also create more opportunities for all PADI Torchbearers to engage in fins-on conservation activities.
Divers have the ability to be a significant force for good in restoring ocean health and achieving balance between humanity and ocean.
ADOPT THE BLUE will protect the ocean and help strengthen local dive communities across the planet. With your support we can increase our impact and protect the places we love now and for generations to come.
Another keystone of the partnership is the formation of the Blancpain/PADI AWARE Community Grant Program, which funds critical conservation efforts in local communities.
The first round of recipients has seen significant funding reach local initiatives spanning all five goals set out in PADI’s Blueprint for Ocean Action – marine debris, vulnerable species protection, coral restoration, blue carbon and marine protected areas. These grants drive both ocean preservation and indigenous community support, serving as a force for good for people and planet.
Learn more about the individual grant recipients here. To read stories of PADI Torchbearers already engaged in fundraising action to further support these programs, or to access resources to begin your own fundraising journey today, click here.
