Make a Difference While Diving on Bonaire: 3 Eco-Friendly Ways to Join
At Scuba Elite, we believe that as divers, we have a responsibility to protect and restore the marine environment. As a PADI Eco Center on Bonaire, we’re committed to offering ways for our divers to contribute to the health of our ocean. You can dive deeper in our mission. Throughout the year, we host several eco-friendly events, giving you the chance to leave the island a little better than you found it.
Here are 3 ways you can get involved:
1. Reef Renewal Specialty
The decline of coral reefs over the past few decades has been alarming, but we can all help in their recovery. Through the PADI Reef Renewal Specialty, you’ll learn hands-on techniques to assist in coral conservation efforts. During this course, you’ll gain valuable skills such as maintaining underwater nursery sites where young corals are nurtured, protecting these sites from invasive species like slugs, and helping transplant coral fragments to “trees” as they mature.
The best part?
When you return to Bonaire, you’ll be able to witness the positive impact your efforts have made on the reef’s recovery. It’s a truly rewarding (and fun!) experience for eco-conscious divers.
Reef Renewal
Pascal, taking care of the corals at one of the Reef Renewal nursery sites on Bonaire.
2. Dive Against Debris
Plastic pollution is one of the biggest threats to our oceans, even here in the Caribbean. Through PADI’s Dive Against Debris program, divers play a crucial role in removing litter from the reefs and contributing to global marine research. Scuba Elite hosts at least five cleanup events each year, giving you the opportunity to make a direct impact.
If you can’t join one of the organized events, no problem! You can turn any dive into a cleanup dive by becoming certified as a Dive Against Debris Diver. With a mesh bag in hand, you can collect debris during every dive and upload your findings to contribute to a global database. It’s a simple way to dive with purpose while visiting.
Dive Against Debris
Collecting trash underwater with a group of divers, at dive site Something Special
Dive Against Debris
You will find all kinds of trash underwater, just like these glass bottles. After the dive, we’ll recycle everything and put in the data for PADI AWARE.
3. Lionfish Hunter Specialty
The lionfish may look beautiful, but it’s one of the most destructive invasive species in the Caribbean. Originally introduced through an aquarium mishap in Florida, lionfish have no natural predators here and are wreaking havoc on local fish populations. Fortunately, there’s a way to help: we are allowed to hunt the Lionfish.
In our Lionfish Hunter Specialty, you’ll learn how to safely use a lionfish elimination tool and catch these predators while protecting Bonaire’s ecosystem. It’s an exciting and effective way to contribute to marine conservation while experiencing the thrill of spearfishing.
Would you like to join?
Whether you’re a regular visitor to Bonaire or planning your first trip, there’s always a way to give back to the island’s incredible marine park. These small actions not only make a big difference but also enhance your diving experience. Join us at Scuba Elite, and together, we can create lasting change in the way we dive and protect the ocean.
