DIVE AGAINST DEBRIS SEPTEMBER 2015

This month, Darrell and the team joined a group of like minded scuba divers from all over the world to tackle the growing onslaught of marine debris. Dive against Debris is an organisation created by divers for divers, this global, underwater survey of rubbish is designed to increase debris removal efforts, prevent harm to marine life and connect your underwater actions to policy changes and prevention.

Our Dive Against Debris was held at the Whitianga Wharf on Wednesday 23 September. Divers began by combing the beaches, clearing any and all debris washed up by our ocean, after that it was in the water to clear both sides of Whitiangas Wharf. Together the crew brought to the surface a HUGE, 150kgs of rubbish, consisting of the usual marine debris, Nylon, Fishing gear and rods,Knives,bottles etc,as well as some unusal finds: Car speakers,umbrellas,a scooter and skateboard and even a couple of bikes!

In addition to the clean-up, Darrell has spent the month of September raising money, and educating others about the Dive against Debris movement. With a combined goal of $10,000 to raise between 15 Fundraising teams, there is still a long way to go! If you would like to show your support and make a donation simply follow the link:http://newzealandfightbackagainsttrash.causevox.com/darrell-bird 

Marine debris is not only unsightly, it’s dangerous to sea life, hazardous to human health, and costly to our economies. Marine animals can become entangled in debris or mistake small particles of trash for food – often with fatal results. Divers, swimmers and beachgoers can be directly harmed by encounters with debris or its toxins. And, the costs of plastic debris to marine ecosystems are estimated at 13 billion dollars a year.