MARINE CONSERVATION

Like many other divers (at least those old enough to remember), the first thing that attracted me to life below the surface of the oceans was the now famous 12 television episodes of The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau. He was also probably the first person to recognise that the worlds oceans were a resource that must be protected, not just for divers but more importantly, for the well marine life and for mankind alike.

"The future of civilisation depends on water. I beg you all to understand this."
(Jacques-Yves Cousteau 01/1997)

Jacques-Yves Cousteau (11/06/1910 - 25/06/1997), was instrumental in promoting the wonders of the oceans to all and especially our need to protect their resources and ecology. The majority of his work in this field was carried out long before such matters were even considered by a large section of the worlds' population. (Please see the Cousteau Page for more information about the man).

Thankfully these days, being 'green' is seen to be fashionable however, despite the good work being done by many organisations and individuals to protect the environment, much has still to be done and can be done! Divers, more than any other section of the community are aware of the wonders to behold beneath the sea and we are privileged to be able to witness all that the oceans contain at first hand and at close quarters. Because of our affinity with the seas, shouldn't we all try to help the cause of marine conservation in any way, no matter how small?

As many SAA members will already know, the official magazine of our association 'Scuba World' in partnership with WildAid, has launched the Support A Shark Campaign. This cause is supported by David Jason (of 'Del Boy' & 'D/Inspector Jack Frost' TV fame). David has recently been instrumental in bring the wonders of the ocean and the sport of diving back to television in Britain with a fine series of documentaries about the subjects.

The World's oceans are home to countless species, from tiny plankton to the great whales and marine life around the coast of the British Isles is as colourful and fascinating as that anywhere else in the World's oceans. Yet marine life, and the sea on which we depend, is under threat from pollution, over-fishing and other damaging activities. Please take a little time to learn more from some of the following marine conservation resources, starting with the PADI Project A.W.A.R.E. site...

10 Ways to protect the environment when diving - padi_10ways.pdf (38k)

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the leading UK charity dedicated to protecting the marine environment and its wildlife, it is a Registered Charity and the President is;
HRH The Prince of Wales KG KT GCB

The WWF was set up in 1961 by a small but eminent group of people, including Sir Peter Scott, the well-known naturalist and wildlife painter. Internationally, WWF projects now contribute to the conservation of natural habitats such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, coasts and marine areas. It works closely with local and indigenous people to find long-term practical solutions to the over-exploitation of natural resources.

Operation Wallacea is a series of scientific wildlife survey and conservation expeditions to a remote corner of the island of Sulawesi. It has been running wildlife research and community development projects in SE Sulawesi for the last 6 years. In 2000 there were nearly 300 mainly University students, together with 20 scientists, 3 professional photographers, 2 artists, expert trackers and forest support teams, diving staff and extensive logistics team to support the wide range of projects completed.

Friends of The Earth: If you care about the environment and the world we pass on to our children, visit FOE and see how you can help or contact them by e-mail at info@foe.co.uk

Greenpeace International: Probably one of the best known active conservation organisations in the world. Their Rainbow Warrior ships were as famous (or infamous) as Cousteau's Calypso!

Environmental Investigation Agency: At least 18,000 Dall's Porpoises will die this year due to illegal fishing practices. The EIA work towards ending this senseless killing, find out how you can help..