Support Policy

Dive A.W.A.R.E — Aquatic World Awareness, Responsibility & Education

Ten ways a diver can protect the aquatic realm, produced by PADI for Project A.W.A.R.E.

• Dive carefully into fragile aquatic ecosystems such as coral reefs

  Although they may look like rocks or plants, many aquatic organisms are fragile creatures that can be damaged or harmed by the bump of a tank, knee or camera, a swipe of a fin or even the touch of a hand. Some organisms, such as corals, are incredibly slow-growing — breaking off even a tiny piece can destroy decades of growth.

• Be aware of your body and equipment placement when diving

  Much damage to the environment is done by humans unknowingly. Keep your alternate air source and gauges secured so they don't drag over the reef or bottom, and control your buoyancy to avoid touching coral or other fragile organisms.

• Keep your diving skills sharp with continuing education

  If you haven't dived for some time, your skills — especially buoyancy control — may need sharpening. Seek bottom time with a certified assistant or instructor, or take a continuing education course.

• Consider your impact on aquatic life through your interactions

  As we become bolder and more curious, we may feel compelled to touch, handle, feed or hitch rides on certain aquatic life. However, our actions may cause stress, interrupt feeding and mating behaviour, or provoke aggressive behaviour in typically non-aggressive species.

• Understand and respect underwater life

  Underwater life often differs significantly in appearance from what we're used to on land. Using creatures as "toys" or food for other animals can disrupt a local ecosystem. Consider enrolling in a fish identification or underwater naturalist course.

• Resist the urge to collect souvenirs

  Dive sites that are heavily visited can be depleted of their resources in a short period of time. If you want to bring home trophies to show friends and family, consider underwater photography instead.

• If you hunt and/or gather game, obey all fish and game laws

  Obtain proper licensing and become familiar with all local fish and game rules, which are designed to ensure the reproduction and survival of these animals. Only take creatures that you will consume.

• Report environment disturbances or destruction of your dive sites

  As a diver, you are uniquely positioned to monitor the health of local waterways and coastal areas. Report unusual depletion of aquatic life or strange substances in the water to local authorities.

• Be a role model for other divers

  Set a good example in your interactions with the environment, and other divers and non-divers will follow suit.

You may feel you can't save the world, but you can greatly impact the corner of the planet where you live and dive. There are plenty of opportunities to show your support for a cleaner aquatic environment, including local beach cleanups and attending public hearings on matters that impact local coastal areas and water resources.