A couple of passionate divers, along with their baby, are undertaking a unique and significant project to promote ocean conservation. Traveling thousands of kilometers in a 100% electric car, they share their message about the importance of sustainable mobility, renewable energy, and reducing our carbon footprint to protect our seas.
Climate Change Is Not the Only Consequence of Our High Carbon Footprint
Since the beginning of the industrial revolution, CO2 levels in the atmosphere have continuously increased, raising the Earth’s average temperature.
Unfortunately, there is a second collateral damage from this excess CO2.
Known as the “evil twin of climate change,” it directly affects the true lung of our planet: the ocean (and we are not referring to the warming of its waters).
When excess CO2 dissolves in seawater, it causes an increase in acidity. This is known as ocean acidification and represents a major threat to marine ecosystems.
The oceans have already acidified by 30% in the last century, at a faster rate than ever recorded.
Scientific studies suggest that this change in ocean chemistry will particularly harm organisms with carbonate shells and skeletons. This includes oysters and corals, as well as organisms higher up the food chain that rely on these sensitive organisms.
Education in Action: The Ocean Tour
The Ocean Tour is an environmental education project created by PADI AmbassaDiver™ Manuel Bustelo and PADI Divemaster Alana Alvarez aimed at informing the public about the relationship between increased CO2 emissions and ocean acidification.
To raise awareness about this enormous threat, the duo has already traveled through more than 20 countries in an electric vehicle, recharging it solely with renewable energy.
At each stop to visit dive centers, government organizations, schools, businesses, and community groups, an educational slideshow presentation is organized, explaining the problem and possible solutions in an easy-to-understand and engaging way. Each talk emphasizes the importance of sustainable mobility and renewable energy in protecting our oceans.
After More Than 35,000 km Traveled, It’s Spain’s Turn!
During September and October 2024, the Ocean Tour will visit key areas in Spain, spreading the message that taking care of the oceans starts with adopting the right measures on land.
Thanks to the 100% electric Model Y provided by Tesla and the renewable energy supplied by IONITY to recharge it, it will be possible to deliver this CO2 reduction message for the health of the ocean, emission-free!
The Family Journey Expands! Including a New Generation in the Adventure
This year, the tour expands even further with the addition of a very special member: the couple’s baby, who was born in June.
Bringing the little one on this adventure is not only exciting but also a reminder of the importance of educating new generations about environmental conservation from an early age. The diving couple aims to inspire other parents to involve their children in protecting our common home. The goal is to demonstrate that every step we take toward a more sustainable future is also a legacy for generations to come.
“Becoming parents doesn’t mean giving up on our dreams, but involving new generations in our mission to preserve the planet. Every talk, every kilometer traveled, carries the hope of a cleaner and brighter world for our children. While including our baby fish in the journey may be a logistical challenge, we cannot allow it to become an excuse for not doing the right thing. We hope to inspire other families to join us in the work for a healthier planet,” says Alana.
Join the Mission
As the Ocean Tour travels through Spain, we invite those in the area to participate in the scheduled talks and activities. Learn about ocean acidification, the importance of sustainable mobility, and how you can contribute to the conservation of our seas. For more details on the Ocean Tour talks and events, follow Manuel’s and Alana’s social media channels. You can also find an event on the PADI Conservation Activities Locator. Be part of the change and help protect the future of our oceans!
Join the community of Ocean Torchbearers™ like Manuel and Alana taking action to save the ocean!
