As avid scuba divers and / or freedivers, we have a deep appreciation for the stunning beauty of the underwater world. As travelers, it is our responsibility to protect and preserve these fragile ecosystems. By making sustainable choices while traveling, we can minimize our impact on the environment and contribute to the well-being of the destinations we explore.
In making the wrong choices, we don’t just risk losing a beautiful ecosystem of vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. These ecosystems play a crucial role in our planet’s health, serving as the largest absorber of carbon dioxide and the primary producers of oxygen. Coral reefs are often referred to as the rainforests of the sea. Meanwhile, marine algae, such as phytoplankton, contribute to the production of approximately half of the world’s oxygen supply. Protecting these fragile ecosystems is not only essential for preserving biodiversity and supporting marine life but also for maintaining the delicate balance of our global ecosystem. By safeguarding coral reefs and marine algae, we safeguard the very foundation of our planet’s well-being.
In this blog post, we will discuss some practical tips and suggestions for divers to make sustainable choices during their trips.
Choose Eco-Friendly Dive Operators
When planning your diving adventures, opt for dive operators that prioritize sustainable practices. Look for operators certified by organizations such as Green Fins or the Blue Flag, as they adhere to strict environmental guidelines. These operators often focus on responsible diving practices, promote marine conservation, and provide additional education to divers about the importance of preserving underwater ecosystems. Many dive centers in remote areas also educate locals about sustainable tourism and fishing practices and the importance of such.
83% of divers expressed a desire to receive more education and guidance on sustainability and marine life protection during their vacations.
Did you know that in a recent survey in 2022 conducted by Green Fins and Reef World 83% of divers answered YES to wanting more education about sustainability while on their diving vacation?
Respect Marine Life
Part of sustainable diving education should always include how to interact with marine life. You may believe that you as one diver touching a sea turtle won’t make a big difference, but if everyone touches or harrasses marine life when underwater, they will soon learn to see us as a threat, leading to an alteration of their behavior and possibly scaring them away from their natural habitat, completely altering the ecosystem in that area. When underwater, remember to maintain a respectful distance from marine life and never touch, chase, or harass any creatures. Keep your buoyancy control skills finely tuned to avoid damaging delicate coral reefs. It is advisable to do a refresher dive if you haven’t been diving for a while to ensure that you are still comfortable with your equipment configuration and for a chance to practice your buoyancy skills along with many other important diving skills. Respect marine protected areas and follow local regulations to help preserve the natural habitats and biodiversity.
Reduce Plastic Usage
Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems. Minimize your plastic footprint by bringing reusable water bottles, utensils, and containers. If you bring products with you that are in plastic packaging, don’t dispose of them on holiday. Take empty shampoo or shower gel bottles back home with you and dispose of them properly in your home country, where they came from. Say no to single-use plastics like straws, bags, and cutlery. Opt for eco-friendly toiletries and sunscreen that do not contain harmful chemicals that can harm coral reefs.
For more information on eco friendly sunscreen check out our blog post: Plastic Free and Reef Safe Sunscreen – Does it Exist?
Support Sustainable Accommodation
Choose accommodations that have implemented sustainable practices. Look for eco-friendly hotels or resorts that prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and support local communities. Consider supporting eco-lodges or guest houses that have a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Conserve Water
Water is a precious resource, especially in coastal areas and island nations. Be mindful of your water usage during your stay. Take shorter showers, reuse towels, and report any leaks or wastage to the hotel staff. When diving, avoid excessive use of freshwater for rinsing your diving equipment by using specially designed rinse tanks or following responsible dive center practices.
Engage in Responsible Souvenir Shopping
When purchasing souvenirs, choose products made from sustainable materials and support local artisans and businesses. Avoid buying items made from endangered species or threatened ecosystems, such as coral jewelry or seashells. Respect international laws and regulations regarding the transportation of wildlife products.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Air travel contributes significantly to carbon emissions. Consider offsetting your carbon footprint by investing in carbon offset projects. Many flight companies will now give you the opportunity to offset your footprint by paying an additional fee to fund one of their supported organizations. You could also do your own research and support an organization that works on projects close to your heart that fund renewable energy, reforestation, or conservation projects. Calculate your carbon emissions and donate to projects that align with your values.
Educate Yourself and Others
Take the initiative to learn about marine conservation, sustainable practices, and local environmental issues. Share your knowledge with fellow divers and travelers to raise awareness about the importance of making sustainable choices. By educating ourselves and others, we can inspire positive change and foster a more responsible diving community.
As divers and travelers, we have the unique opportunity to witness the raw beauty of the underwater world. By making conscious and sustainable choices, we can ensure that future generations can experience these wonders as well. Let’s embrace our role as stewards of the oceans and commit to protecting the fragile ecosystems we love. Together, we can make a difference and create a more sustainable future for our planet.