Looking at our planet from outer space, the first signs of life are coral reefs. These incredible structures were once seen simply as a danger by those exploring the oceans. We now know that, like rainforests, they are vital to our survival. Here are some things you can do to protect coral reefs. This list is from Programa de Conservación de Arrecifes de Coral de la Administración Nacional Oceánica y Atmosférica (NOAA) :
Learn about coral reefs and the creatures they support. How many different species live on reefs? What new medicines have been developed from reef organisms? Participate in educational or training programs that focus on reef ecology, such as especialidad PADI Project AWARE . When you advance your own education, you can help others understand the fragility and value of the world's coral reefs.
Be an active participant in wastewater management! Make sure wastewater from your boat and home is treated properly. Excess nutrients in wastewater can have a negative impact on coral reef ecosystems.
Support organizations that protect coral reefs. Many groups have coral reef programs and your support will make a big difference.
Do not use chemically enhanced pesticides and fertilizers. While you can live thousands of miles from a coral reef ecosystem, these products end up in the watershed, the area that empties into a common waterway, such as a stream, lake, estuary, wetland, and ultimately instance, the ocean.
Volunteer for a debris dive. ¿No vives cerca de un arrecife de coral? Then consider visiting a coral reef on your next vacation. Spend an afternoon enjoying the beauty of one of the world's treasures while helping to preserve it for future generations. Participate in the next outing Dive Against Debris?
Be an informed consumer. Only buy marine fish and other reef organisms when you know they have been harvested in an ecologically sound manner. Ask store managers which coral reefs the organisms came from and how they were collected. Avoid consuming endangered species such as groupers, lobsters. Does the country have a management plan to ensure that the harvest is legal and sustainable over time? Visit your local botanical garden or zoo. Ask what they are doing and how you can help conserve our coral reefs. The answer may pleasantly surprise you. If you dive, don't touch! Take only photos and leave only bubbles. Keep your fins, gear and hands away from the reef as this contact can hurt you and will harm the delicate coral animals. Maintain excellent buoyancy control and stay off the bottom because disturbed sediment can suffocate corals.
Support reef-friendly businesses. Ask what your dive shop, boat shop, tour operator, hotel and other coastal businesses are doing to save coral reefs. This is especially important in coastal areas with reefs. Let them know that you are an informed consumer and that you care about the reefs.
Recycle. This helps keep trash out of the oceans and also out of landfills where it can have an adverse impact on the water quality of our rivers and oceans. Conserve water.
The less water you use, the less runoff and wastewater will eventually find its way back to the oceans.
Become a volunteer monitor! Participate in community coral reef monitoring programs. If you don't live near a coast, get involved in protecting your watershed. Report spills or other illegal activities.
Help be the eyes and ears of the reef! Your participation can make a big difference.
Hire local guides (certified instructors) when visiting coral reef ecosystems. This will help you learn about local resources and protect the future of the reef by supporting the local economy.
Do not anchor on the reef. If boating near a coral reef, use mooring buoy systems when available. If you see or observe that other people ignore this, report it to the local authorities.
Participate in the Great Annual Fish Count.
What better way to enjoy your vacation than snorkeling or scuba diving in America's coral reefs? Fish Count helps scientists better understand coral reef fish populations. Join the PADI fish identification specialty.
Please respect local guidelines when visiting a reef. Help keep coral reefs healthy by respecting local customs, recommendations and regulations.
Ask your local authorities or your dive shop how to be a reef-friendly ambassador. Stay informed. Learn about existing and proposed laws, programs and projects that could impact the world's coral reefs. Many websites provide information about coral reefs and what you can do to get involved. Spread the word.
Remember your own excitement in learning the value and importance of coral reef ecosystems.
Sharing this emotion involves everyone. Why not start today? Demonstrate your commitment to marine conservation and become a PADI Torchbearer!
Comments