When asked how concerned they are about marine conservation issues, three quarters (74%) of the divers who took part in this survey describe themselves as ‘very concerned’. Almost all survey respondents are ‘very or quite concerned’ (96%). Furthermore, a 74% of the respondents are more concerned about the marine environment than was the case 5 years ago.

Degrading environment
The reason for this is that they have noticed degradation of underwater environments in recent years. 6 in 10 divers say they have noticed a reduction in the amount of fish and an increase in pollution and litter.

The survey also asked the respondents to give comments in addition to answering questions:
“The lack of effort and knowledge of most people across the globe! The fact that 90% of apex predators have gone from the oceans but no real change has happened in the fishing industry. The rate of increase in sea level/temperature and climate change with a huge amount of people still unbelieving +/or unwilling to do anything about it!”

Self-perception
The survey also asked the divers what they consider to be the main environmental impacts with regard to scuba diving. 3 in 5 (62%) identify ‘damage to delicate marine environments through ’poor buoyancy control’ as the main environmental impacts of scuba diving itself. Moreover, 94% of responding divers actively choose scuba diving suppliers and services if they work to protect the marine environment.

Conclusions
The survey shows the majority of divers are increasingly concerned for the health of our seas and do what they can to help conserve it. Many are passionate ambassadors for the marine environment and have the potential to be very instrumental in making non-divers aware of just how important it is that we manage our seas in a more sustainable way. They are keen to identify like-minded diving suppliers and services that will actively work to protect and preserve the marine environment.

The online survey aimed at the scuba diving public was designed and programmed by the independent market research company Community Research, and had a sample size was 221 people.

Sea-Changers is a new charity with the mission of raising significant additional funds for marine conservation charities and projects in the UK. We exist in order to harness the energy, good will and resources of those who love the sea.

◄ Previous | Image of | Next ►

-