Bali's underwater world is spectacular, but it faces real threats. Coral bleaching from rising ocean temperatures, plastic pollution, anchor damage, and destructive fishing practices all take their toll on the reefs.
Indonesia declared a nationwide manta ray sanctuary in 2014, providing full legal protection to both species of manta ray. The economic value of a live manta (through dive tourism) is estimated at $1 million over its lifetime, compared to $500 for a dead manta in the gill raker trade.
The Pemuteran Bio-Rock project has restored over 2 hectares of coral reef using low-voltage electricity to accelerate coral growth. Divers can visit the project and see how damaged reefs can be brought back to life.
What divers can do: perfect your buoyancy (the single most important conservation action), use reef-safe sunscreen (chemical sunscreens kill coral), do not touch, chase, or ride marine life, pick up debris when safe to do so, and choose dive operators who follow responsible practices.
Our conservation commitments: we limit group sizes to minimize reef impact, we conduct regular beach and reef cleanups, we use mooring lines instead of anchors at dive sites, we educate all divers about reef-safe practices, and we support local marine conservation projects.
Consider the PADI AWARE specialty course to learn more about marine conservation while diving. We can add this to any dive package.