By 2025, as much as 250 million metric tons of plastic could make its way into the ocean, damaging critical habitats and endangering marine life. But, our trash does not belong underwater. That’s why Project AWARE divers around the world are taking a stand, fighting back against marine debris, and working together to develop solutions.

One of television’s biggest events is upon us – Discovery Channel’s Shark Week. Whether you love their infamous programming or plan to boycott the drama, one thing is certain – scuba divers are some of shark’s biggest fans.  These vital creatures are critical to marine ecosystems but they’re in danger. The good news is that divers will go to great lengths to protect them. Scuba diver and Project AWARE supporter, Natalie Parrinder, has done just that.
 

Unbeknownst to many, everyday items like plastic bags, food wrappers and drink bottles make their way from land to sea. The general public assumption is that if we can’t see the problem, it isn’t there. But for divers, the marine debris issue is never out of sight, out of mind. Around the world, Project AWARE supporters are taking action against the ugly journey of our trash.

“Honey, what do you think about buying a dive shop?” So many of us dream about quitting our day jobs to pursue our passions, but few actually take the leap.

Rob Thompson is first and foremost, a conservationist. Intrigued by the marine world, he works fiercely to protect it.
At just three years old, Rob had his first glimpse under the sea.  While on holiday in Croatia, his parents strapped a mask and snorkel onto his little face and that was that – he was off! He spent the remainder of his vacation submerged, exploring amongst the seaweed, corals and creatures of the underwater world, and has since continued to do so at every opportunity he’s been given.

She’d always had a keen sense of adventure. She loved to travel, explore and revel in nature’s beauty. During a backpacking trip through Costa Rica, Barbara Joon enrolled in a PADI Open Water Diver course – just for the fun of it. Little did she know, her experience exploring the underwater world that day would change her life forever.

Divers’ voices play a key role in advocating for the protection of marine wildlife at risk of extinction. This Endangered Species Day, Project AWARE highlights the actions taken by an individual to protect one of the vulnerable creatures of the deep – the awe-inspiring manta rays.
 

With Endangered Species Day, May 15, just one week away, we’re reminded of the importance of saving and protecting marine life. Marine debris – the trash from our everyday lives that makes its way from land to sea – damages vital ocean habitats like coral reefs and seagrass beds, and poses a serious hazard to endangered marine species.
Marine debris is one of the biggest threats facing our ocean, and the students of the Florida Keys Community College Scuba Club are working together to tackle the challenge head on!

Australia-born Cecily Kelly fell in love with scuba diving at age 12. Determined to build a career in diving in order to share her love of the ocean with others, she found the perfect opportunity when her husband joined the marines and they relocated to the United States. Stationed at the Camp Pendleton marine base on the southern California coast, Cecily discovered the base’s scuba diving center where she was able to start her career in the diving industry by helping with facilitating dive classes and overseeing operations.