15 TIPS FOR DIVING RESPONSIBLY WITH MARINE LIFE
divers, it is important we make informed decisions, both when organising our trips and while we are on them, to help ensure we limit our environmental impact. The following 15 tips will help you to ensure your next diving holiday is as environmentally-friendly as possible: When making enquiries about your stay, you should ask about their conservation ethos. You want to make sure that your dive operator has responsible diving guidelines and takes a proactive approach toward conservation NOAA estimates that 4,000– 6,000 tonnes of sunscreen washes off our bodies and onto coral reefs every year. Certain ingredients in sunscreens are toxic to corals and reef fishes, and can cause coral bleaching. There are now reef safe varieties that use alternative compounds that are much less detrimental to the marine environment. To note, you should look apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you enter the water Some of the major dive companies actively support marine conservation, and some actually generate their gear from ocean waste and recycling. This is a fantastic initiative because it not only acts against marine debris, but it also involves and supports local communities When encountering marine animals, it is essential that they are respected. Find out what species you are likely to encounter and check with the experts for appropriate behaviour. Following their guidelines will not only ensure you do not disturb the animals, but it will also enhance your encounter with them Many major marine conservation organisations rely directly on donations and outside sources to carry out their work. You can support them by donating funds, by volunteering or by offering your skills Make effort to ensure that all of your equipment is tucked in before and during your dive. Do not leave hoses or gauges dangling because they can easily catch on corals. Make sure that you are correctly weighted too, since this will make it easier for you to control your buoyancy In order to improve your encounters and to give yourself the opportunity to witness natural behaviour, you need to relax, dive slowly and not try to chase the marine life. Also, whether it is for personal enjoyment or to show others, touching or harassing marine life is completely unacceptable behaviour. If the current is too strong or if the creature you want to look at is not in an ideal position, you should wait for a better opportunity to present itself before proceeding