Following on from World Environment Day on 5th June, the United Nations World Ocean Day takes place on 8th June and aims to raise awareness of the issues our oceans are facing and how we can combat them to keep them healthy and thriving.
Why should do oceans matter and what issues do they face?
Oceans are a vital part of the earth’s ecosystem. They produce at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen, are home to most of its biodiversity, and are the main source of animal protein for more than a billion people around the world.
Millions of tonnes of plastic end up in the world’s oceans every year. Thousands of birds, fish, turtles, seals and other species die each year after from plastic pollution. Many ingest microplastics and other toxins. And this is not just on the sea’s surface. There is so much more hidden debris on the ocean’s floor.
What can we do to help?
There are several practical ways divers can get involved to support better ocean health, not just on World Ocean Day but throughout the year as well:
- Take a Dive Clean Up Course
Dive clean up courses help keep dive sites healthier by removing underwater litter and plastic pollution. As part of the course, during an open water dive, you will conduct a survey, including weighing, sorting, recording, disposing and reporting your marine debris to the relevant contacts.You can find dive clean up courses from various dive organisations online. Keep an eye on the DCA website resource page for the latest course listings. - Protest against ocean pollution
Every year more waste ends up underwater, reaching even the most remote ocean areas. This litter kills wildlife, destroys habitats and threatens our own health and economy. Use your diving position to highlight the issue. Report and take away what any litter you find underwater during your dive. - Only take photos, not souvenirs, from the oceans
Nearly everything natural things found in the ocean are living or will be used by a living creature. Corals, shells or fish, taking them from their habitat will disturb the delicate balance of the ecosystem and cause further harm to our damaged oceans. Don’t risk it, take pictures of the amazing scenes from your dive, but leave nature where it is. - Be responsible with your seafood choices
Overfishing has led to a major decline in many species while dangerous fishing practices damage and pollute ecosystems. As consumers we all have a part to play in combatting this. If you eat seafood, only choose sustainably sourced fish and encourage and educate others, to follow your lead. - Reduce your carbon footprint
Global warming is putting all of our oceans and ecosystems at risk. Make conscious decisions to reduce your carbon footprint. Choose local dive sites to reduce travel. Switch to renewable energy. Recycle your litter. Travel on bicycle or foot where possible. Even small changes make a big difference when we all work together. - Donate to and fundraise for ocean charities
Protecting our oceans requires help and funding. Investing in our oceans protects the places we love and the places we do what we love the most- diving. Donating or fundraising for ocean charities ensures you are helping the cause by supporting organisations that have the power to make positive changes. Always check the charity you are supporting is registered and legitimate. Ocean Clean Up: https://theoceancleanup.com/. And Ocean Conservancy: https://oceanconservancy.org/ are good causes to support.
