We care about our ocean and marine debris is a problem that is affecting the marine life all over the world. We want to help, not just with cleanups but to spread the word about the problem and encourage people to change their behaviour and lobby for policy change to stop pollution, particularly plastics, from entering our oceans. That is why we participate in the PADI Dive Against Debris Programme and teach the PADI Dive Against Debris specialty course.

What is Dive Against Debris?

Project Aware’s Dive Against Debris Program is not just a “pick up the rubbish” program but is a survey of marine debris as well. So once we have dived for the rubbish, we weigh it, count it and send off the data to Project Aware thus participating in the worldwide survey. The data is important so we can document what is happening and how much rubbish is ending up in our oceans, and with this data we may be able to persuade the powers that be to change policy so in the future less rubbish ends up in the sea, damaging the coral, animals and ecosystems. This is in addition to the obvious advantage of removing the rubbish that damages our marine environment.

Can I join in?

Yes!! All you need to be is a scuba diver (minimum requirement is an Open Water Certification or equivalent), have dived within the last year and dived with us before. 

What do I need to pay?

The only cost to you is gear hire if you need it, for which there is a charge of Vt1,500. There is no cost for the dive, tank fill or weights. This is part of Big Blue’s commitment to the environment.

Do I need any special equipment?

No, normal scuba gear is all that is required. We highly recommend gloves for your protection (we will have some for sale at cost price if you don’t bring your own) and a knife or a pair of heavy scissors is useful for removing debris such as fishing line. A slate is also useful for recording data.

Do I need to do anything before the dive?

Yes. It is a PADI requirement that you read the Dive Against Debris Survey Guide prior to the dive. You can find the guide here

You will also need to familiarize yourself with the Data card. You can find it here

There is also the usual PADI paperwork (i.e. disclaimer form) to fill in as well. Please  email us so we can ensure you have all the details you need before the dive. Once you have read the guide all you have to do is turn up and Dive Against Debris!

Do I need to do anything after the dive?

Yes. Once we have brought up the rubbish, all the volunteer divers will be expected to help with the sorting and counting of the rubbish.

What are the results so far?

All our data is uploaded to the PADI Aware Marien Debris interactive map. Find it here to check out what we have found on our previous dives.