As divers, we know that tackling two of the biggest threats facing our ocean – marine debris and over-exploitation of shark and ray species – is a real challenge, one that we must address together if we are to secure a brighter future for the ocean and its wildlife.
This Endangered Species Day, May 15, join us in recognizing the urgent conservation efforts needed to protect marine species by taking Project AWARE’s new My Ocean Challenge - a new, exciting way for you to fundraise to protect marine wildlife and their habitat.

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.

This year’s April celebrations in honor of Earth Day are coming to a close. Under the global theme "It's Our Turn to Lead", we shone a light on the actions you take, not only during Earth Day but all year round, to tackle one of the biggest ocean issues of our time: marine debris.

Since the launch of Project AWARE’s Dive Against Debris specialty course in 2014, PADI Instructor, Fletcher Ferguson, has made educating divers about the global marine debris problem one of his top priorities. Fletcher understands the devastating impact of trash in our ocean and recognizes the important role divers can play in preventing, removing and reporting debris found underwater.

It's one of the largest marine debris removal efforts ever undertaken by Project AWARE volunteers as dive centres, businesses and locals rebuild the community after category 5 cyclone 'Pam' swept through the islands of Vanuatu on 13th March 2015. 
With wind gusts in excess of 320km/hr and violent storm surges, the cyclone didn't just damage commercial and residential buildings, it also wrecked havoc under the waves with boats and yachts smashed against the seafloor. 

With Earth Day – April 22 – just one week away, Project AWARE is celebrating all things rubbish!
Over the past two decades, our supporters have helped us tackle the global issue of marine debris. From small changes in their daily lives to onshore and underwater cleanups, local actions have helped contribute to cleaner, healthier marine environments. And, we’re gaining traction.