April 22 marks the 45th Anniversary of Earth Day, an annual event celebrated worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection. Under this year’s global theme, “It’s Our Turn to Lead,” throughout the month of April, Project AWARE is shining a light on how scuba divers like you are taking action and leading the fight against the growing marine debris problem.
For many, marine debris seems like a remote problem – out of sight, out of mind – but we divers see first-hand the devastating impacts it has on marine life. With levels of plastic debris entering the ocean expected to increase more than tenfold in the next decade, it’s time to reveal the true extent of the marine debris problem for all to see. Earth Day is our opportunity to put our diving skills to good use and learn more about how divers can help drive policy change and improve waste management that will result in a permanent, measurable reduction in marine debris entering the ocean.
This Earth Day, It’s Our Turn To Lead:
1. Dive Against Debris. Remove and report what doesn’t belong underwater every time you dive.
2. Be a Debris Activist. None of our trash belongs in the ocean. This Earth Day, let’s make changes in our everyday lives to help keep plastic out of the ocean. Join the fight against marine debris and pledge to follow Project AWARE’s 10 Tips for Diversto Protect the Ocean Planet.
3. Invest in a Trash Free Ocean. Earth Day reminds us that we need to step up the fight against marine debris. Fuel the grassroots action and policy change necessary to ensure a clean, healthy ocean planet – Donate to support a trash free ocean.
If you’re a PADI Professional, mobilize your divers and community into action by teaching the PADI-approved Dive Against Debris Distinctive Specialty. Apply directly to PADI for the rating this April – Project AWARE will send you a free Dive Against Debris mesh bag* and PADI will donate your Instructor rating fee to Project AWARE!
We all have a role to play in reducing, removing and preventing marine debris – This Earth Day, it’s #OurTurnToLead. Celebrate Earth Day, Dive Against Debris and join the Project AWARE movement to protect the ocean from harmful debris year round, one dive at the time.
* While stocks last. Bags will be mailed by Project AWARE at the beginning of May.
