🌊 Dive Against Debris – Underwater Cleanup Program

The Dive Against Debris program by PADI AWARE Foundation is designed to mobilize divers worldwide to remove and document marine debris from the seafloor. It is the only underwater citizen-science program that focuses exclusively on underwater pollution, contributing to solutions that protect the marine environment. 🌍

🔍 How does Dive Against Debris work?

• 🛟 Cleanup dives: Divers organize or participate in underwater cleanup events, removing debris from the seabed.
• 📋 Documentation: They record and report their findings through the PADI AWARE global database.
• 🧪 Science and Policy: The collected data is used for scientific research, policy development, and environmental education.
• 📜 Certification: Participants can earn the Dive Against Debris Diver certification, gaining skills in marine debris management.

🤔 Why is it important?

• 🌊 Invisible pollution: Over 70% of marine debris is located on the seafloor and is not visible from the surface.
• 📊 Valuable data: The collected information helps develop programs to reduce pollution.
• 🌱 Environmental awareness: The initiative enhances ecological consciousness within the diving community.

📚 Dive Against Debris Diver – PADI Specialty

This specialty is designed for divers who want to safely conduct underwater cleanups and document data on marine pollution.

📝 Requirements

• 🏅 Certification: You must be at least an Open Water Diver or hold an equivalent certification from another organization.
• 👶 Age: Minimum age to participate is 12 years.

🤿 Dives & Assessment

• 📍 Dive: One training dive is required to complete the specialty.
• 📚 Evaluation: There is no written exam, but your instructor will assess your ability to correctly apply debris collection and recording procedures.

📖 Theory Section

The theory covers:

• 🔍 Types of marine debris and their impact on the marine environment.
• 🐠 What to remove and what to leave: Items that may have become part of the ecosystem.
• ⚠️ Safety protocols for debris removal.
• 🛠️ Equipment usage: How to use lift bags and debris collection bags.
• 📋 Data recording in the PADI AWARE global database.

💰 Program Cost:

80€ – Includes the training dive, theory, and certification.

Interested in joining? Become part of the solution for cleaner oceans! 🌊✨