Jacques Cousteau had the right idea when he said, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
It’s true; anyone lucky enough to spend time in the ocean knows it’s a truly magical place. But, it’s also fragile and under constant threat from human activity.
Divers are in a unique position to help protect the ocean, because they can see first-hand the beauty that is at risk. However, there’s a lot that everyone can do to help, even when you are not diving.
Here are some things you can do to help protect the ocean when you can’t be in it.
1. Sign the PADI x SeaLegacy OCEANS30 Petition
Water covers 70% of our blue planet, yet less than 2% of the ocean is fully protected. Sign the PADI x SeaLegacy 30×30 petition to urge world leaders to increase that protection to 30% by 2030. And even better, share the petition on social media and with your friends and family to help spread the word.
2. Support PADI AWARE’s Shark Campaigns
Through local action to protect native shark and ray populations, together with international advocacy and the Global Shark Census, the PADI AWARE shark campaigns aim to reduce the number of sharks and rays threatened with extinction by 25% by 2030, which is a pretty sweet goal to get behind. Donate, share and take action to help these magnificent beasts.
3. Fundraise for the PADI AWARE Foundation
PADI AWARE funds critical research and conservation projects to help protect our oceans and their creatures. You can help by fundraising, volunteering or donating to the PADI AWARE Foundation. There are many ways to get involved, from creating a birthday fundraiser to hosting virtual classes or participating in a sponsored race. Show your support to protect the most vulnerable species, restore critical marine habitats and reduce ocean pollution.
4. Snorkel with Green Fins Operators
Next time you get in the water, support snorkel operators that are Green Fins certified. These ocean allies are committed to following the Green Fins Code of Conduct and adopting best practices to minimize their impact on the environment. They help to educate about ocean conservation, while ensuring you have a safe and fun experience in the water.
5. Make Your Shopping Count with the PADI Gear Charity Collections
Next time you want to buy a present for a friend or yourself, pick something from the PADI Gear charity collections. We donate a percentage of these sales to non-profit organizations that help keep oceans plastic free and ocean life healthy and thriving. Plus, the gear is super cute! And it’s a sure conversation starter to tell people about the cause you support every time you use it.
6. Choose Sustainable Seafood to Save the Ocean
If you eat seafood, you can help support ocean-friendly practices by choosing sustainably caught or farmed species. Ask about the origin of the seafood at your local grocery store or restaurant, and look for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). You can also keep an eye on the latest rating for individual species from SeafoodWatch, TheGoodFishGuide, and GoodFish.
7. Share Your Love for the Ocean
Knowledge is power, and the more people who know about the threats facing our oceans, the more we can do to protect them. Share articles, films and social media posts about ocean conservation with your friends and family. You never know; you might just inspire someone to take their own actions to help save the ocean.
8. Make Eco-Friendly Choices
Our everyday actions impact the environment, and we can all make choices that help to save the ocean. Whether it’s refusing plastic straws, taking public transportation or conserving water, we have the opportunity to make choices that can help protect the ocean every day.
These are just a few things you can do to help save the ocean, even when you’re not diving. Every little bit helps, and together we can make a big difference.
So dive in and do your part; the ocean will thank you!
