Sustainability is a key driver in nature’s welfare as we begin to increase efforts towards environmental conservation, education and economic and social health. Protecting the planet can be supported by everyone, one of which is divers – whom can be known for having a positive impact on marine ecology.
With this is mind, we explored what Eco Diving actually is and found the top destinations to secure a sustainable trip - as it becomes one of the unique ways to help protect the planet.
What is Eco Diving?
Described as aiming at doing something good for the environment, Eco Diving is a form of sustainable tourism that combines scuba diving with a deep commitment to preserving marine ecosystems. Its main goal is to minimise negative impacts on the marine environment by actively contributing to its restoration and protection.
What Makes Eco Diving Different?
Eco divers have a responsibility to adhere to strict guidelines which helps avoid coral reef, leaving any waste or disturbing the marine lifestyle. This is done by buoyancy control and non-invasive diving techniques.
As an Eco Diver, it is advised when under the water to keep everything as it is – don’t pick up shells, rocks or anything that could make a detrimental impact to the coral. With these top tips, we’ve picked out the best diving resorts around the world that offer eco-friendly and sustainable tourism.
Indonesia
The Asian country offers an extensive range of eco-friendly destinations for divers - one of which is Wakatobi Dive Resort, located in Southeastern Sulawesi. The resort provides multiple conservation projects, and works actively to reverse human’s impact on the Sulawesi marine ecosystems.
Misool Eco Resort is yet another hub for eco divers which is a private island that obtains its own sustainability charity – The Missol Foundation. The organisation supports the safeguarding of biodiversity of local reefs and implements a range of education, environmental and community projects.
Philippines
Located in Malapascua in the Philippines, Evolution Resort is exceptional for an eco dive. Awarded with a Green Fins Award in 2023, the resort has been commemorated for its pioneering approach, focusing on training its divers to be aware of the environment as well as encouraging recycling and obtaining sustainable food choices.
Then there's Sangat Island Dive Resort - a great destination that plays a vital role in the protection of waters and reefs of the local marine park. The resort itself reduces the use of plastic and encourages all its guests to be involved in eco-friendly activities for the purpose of the marine.
Mozambique
Yet another perfect destination for those keen to dive sustainably – Nuarro Lodge in Mozambique was actually designed in partnership with the local community to protect the natural environment. With beautiful coral reefs, rare sea turtles and birds – the location is a scenic resort that protects marine biodiversity from guests and locals.
Maldives
The Six Senses Laamu aims to protect 19,200-acre Laamu a marine protected area, keeping it a thriving and sustainable habitat for coral and those who wish to dive there. The location is a member of The Long Run – a global initiative that strives to create a sustainable future through conservation, community and culture.
Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:
https://www.diveworldwide.com/divelog/10-of-the-best-eco-friendly-diving-destinations
https://www.divein.com/diving/sustainable-diving/
https://www.divecuracao.info/dive-travel/eco-dive-tourism/
https://www.originaldiving.com/collections/top-ten-eco-dive-resorts
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