As we gear up for PADI Women’s Dive Day, July 20, 2024, there are many ways to participate. Whether it’s joining a local event, saying no to straws or simply picking up trash on the beach, here are some ways you can help and give back to the ocean this year.
1. Lose a Pound
An estimated 16 billion pounds of plastic enter the ocean each year. Seven days a week, 4Ocean hires boats and cleanup crews to remove those plastics. They also host cleanups on the coast and offshore. For those of us that can’t make the journey, the purchase of one 4Ocean bracelet contributes to the removal of one pound of trash from our oceans. The unisex design is adjustable, made from recycled materials, and a small way to make a big impact.
2. Skip the Straw
In September 2017, 2.3 million straws were removed from Seattle’s waters alone. Lonely Whale has not only created a global goal to remove 500 million plastic straws from U.S. waters, but they’ve also conducted a citywide takeover encouraging Seattle businesses to use marine biodegradable straws instead of plastic. Get involved!
3. Clean Smart
Every product that goes down the drain eventually makes its way to the ocean. Unfortunately, many cleaning products deposit harmful chemicals along with them. Choose shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and sunscreens that are biodegradable, free of aquatic toxicity and safe for the reefs and marine life. Ocean-safe lines like Stream2Sea are tested for water safety, come in a variety of options for different skin sensitivities, and offer full coverage for long days on the water. Check out this list of natural sunscreens that are great for diving.
4. Get Carded
PADI AWARE and PADI have been partnering for ocean protection for 25 years. Need a new certification card? 100% of the USD $10 donation that comes with PADI AWARE’s new PADI limited edition card support ocean conservation.
5. Go Local
PADI dive operators offer conservation-minded specialties, such as the PADI AWARE Specialty and AWARE® Shark Conservation. To further ensure the protection of local reefs and marine life, many dive communities host activities specific to their local area, whether it be beach cleanups or Dive Against Debris® events. Use the Conservation Activities Locator to find an event near you.
6. Get Social
Whatever you decide to do to help our oceans on PADI Women’s Dive Day, don’t keep it a secret! Take photos of your accomplishments and post them on social media – you deserve credit for your actions. Posting your images doesn’t just boost your confidence – it’s a great way to boost awareness about the issues our oceans are facing. Tag your friends and dive buddies and ask them to either support you, or even better, ask them to join you. Everything is better with friends – including saving the ocean! Don’t forget to use #PADIWomensDiveDay.
Ready to get involved this PADI Women’s Dive Day? Learn more about events available or get more information about conservation initiatives by clicking the button below.