As scuba divers, we have the unique opportunity to witness the beauty of our oceans. We unfortunately also know that our beloved playground is at risk. While there are many ways we can pledge to be responsible scuba divers, do you know there are also many things you can do on a day to day basis that will help to protect what you love the most? Marine conservation really can start at home!
1 ) Reducing our carbon footprint will help to contain global warming and prevent coral reefs from bleaching
Do you really need to drive to the store? Could you car-share with a colleague from the office, take the bus or cycle? If you can then these simple steps will not only reduce your CO2 emissions but also help you make significant savings for your next scuba diving holiday. Did you know that livestock farming also has one of the most significant CO2 impacts, so reducing the amount of meat in your meals is an excellent way also to help the ocean? Why not try meatless Mondays for instance?
2) Cutting out single-use plastic waste will help avoid marine life choking on plastic
Did you know that Bali has now banned plastic bags? This is a huge step forward for Indonesia! At our Bunaken dive sites, sea turtles are found in abundance. Sea turtles feed on jellyfish and have been known to mistake plastic bags in the ocean for food. Our single-use plastic waste such as plastic bags, plastic bottles, food, and cosmetic packaging is killing marine species on a daily basis. That’s why at our Two Fish Divers resorts we don’t use plastic straws and in our rooms we have large “Gallons” of water instead of using smaller non-reusable bottles. Wherever possible we aim to avoid single-use plastics – you can help too by being mindful of what plastics you use and throw away.
3) Be aware of your fish consumption and where it came from
Look for responsible fishing methods thanks to quality labels such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) and try to reduce your fish and seafood consumption to maybe once or twice a week. At all of our resorts, we aim to support local fishermen whenever possible.
4) Join a cleanup program – or start one of your own!
Beach and countryside clean-ups are a great way of getting involved, meeting like-minded people and cleaning up areas that need it most. If you can’t find one to join, why not start one yourself? At all of our Two Fish resorts and dive centres we regularly organize both beach and underwater cleanups.
5) Spread the word thanks to social media power
The power of social media to influence opinions doesn’t need to be demonstrated anymore – we know it works! Anytime you see content explaining more about saving our oceans and marine conservation, please share it with your friends. Many cleanups are posted in advance on FaceBook so a quick search is a great way to find out what’s happening in your area – and post about your own cleanup and Dive Against Debris events! (If you are holding a Dive Against Debris, remember to report your cleanup data to Project AWARE!
Are you preparing for your next diving trip? Get in touch with us to find out about upcoming cleanups and events at our resorts. To find out more about diving with us and our marine conservation efforts, fill in the contact form below and we’ll get right back to you!
Do you want to dive and save? Have you checked out our new Special Offers page yet? Click here and find a special offer that suits you! Please mention any special offers when making your reservation!