The reality is that it’s not always possible to be in the water as much as you’d like. That’s why for this AWARE Week we put together a list of six ways you can help out… with your fins off.
1. Take the PADI AWARE Specialist
With no prerequisites, age restrictions or in-water sessions, the PADI AWARE® Specialist is a course for everyone and anyone with an interest in conservation and the aquatic world. This specialty covers a number of key environmental issues. These include the challenges and sustainability problems affecting fisheries and what’s happening to coral reefs.
Contact your local dive shop to find out where and when you can take the course.
2. Reduce plastic use at home
There are plenty of online guides out there on how to reduce your plastic waste at home and on vacation. But why is this so important? According to PADI AWARE, as much as 250 million metric tons of plastic could make its way into the ocean by 2025 – and this plastic comes from the land. By stopping or reducing plastic pollution at its source, we can help to reduce this figure.
3. Share AWARE Week inspiration online
In this digital age, a lot of our information is shared through social media. If you’re passionate about protecting our oceans, why not share interesting and relevant articles and videos with your online circle? You might be surprised what conversations you start and how many people you know who are also passionate about conservation!
4. Help from the shore at a Dive Against Debris
Just because you can’t get in the water, doesn’t mean you can help out during a Dive Against Debris. Divers will often pick up so much trash that a willing pair of hands on land sorting the debris and logging it on the PADI AWARE app (available on the Apple store or Google Play) is greatly appreciated! Find out if your local dive shop is hosting a Dive Against Debris this AWARE week and see if you can join in!
You can also check out the Dive Against Debris Map online here to see how the data collected is being used.
5. Organize a fundraiser
As a charity, PADI AWARE relies on fundraising. This gives you an alternative way to support ocean conservation and protection when you can’t get in the water for a Dive Against Debris. Whether you have a sports event coming up or are feeling inspired to create some delicious baked goods, there are any number of great ways to raise some funds (and awareness) about ocean conservation!
To help you on your way, PADI AWARE even provide this handy fundraiser toolkit!
6. Get the PADI AWARE certification card
If you have taken any PADI course in the past or have even been inspired to take the PADI AWARE Specialist in the future, why not show your support with a PADI AWARE certification card? The money raised through these cards goes directly to PADI AWARE, so every time you take it out you’ll be reminded how you helped to protect the ocean and its marine inhabitants. If you would like to update your previous certifications, you can order a PADI AWARE replacement certification card here.
Ready to get involved? Then sign up for the PADI AWARE Specialtist or get in touch with your local dive shop to find out about any planned events. And remember, if you post on social media, be sure to share it with us using the #AWAREWeek hashtag.