Intro Bio : Cindy & Laurent are a French couple that completely changed career paths, becoming a Yoga Teacher (Cindy) and a PADI scuba diving instructor (Laurent). They now run an online booking platform for diving experiences : www.mydivingholidays.com

Both above and under the surface, the impact of mass tourism is starting to take its tolls on the most beautiful holiday destinations around the world. However, there are a few ways you can help preserve some of the Earth’s wonders. Help reverse the trend with these Top 5 green tips for responsible diving.

Snorkelling

Don’t step on coral reefs

Coral reefs are fascinating underwater places that boast with life. Coming in all shapes, colors and sizes, they are vital to the survival of most aquatic species. This being said, they are often considered as non­living rocks. They are however marine invertebrates that grow at an extremely slow rate of a few millimeters per month. As an eco­tourist, make sure not to step on corals when snorkelling and mind where you put your fins to avoid kicking bits of it while scuba diving.

Coral Reef

Leave only bubbles

Some fish or marine mammals can be the absolute cutest things you’ve ever seen (I mean, turtles anyone ?). In addition, these little guys may be quite curious, coming closer and closer to check you out. Yet, refrain from touching them, not to mention taking them out of their natural habitat to bring them home (this including seashells as well).

Leave only bubbles

Don’t feed fish

Remember also that wild animals are not pets. There are a number of reasons why fish feeding is not a great idea. First, whatever you are throwing in the water is clearly not their natural food. Fish do not eat bread or Cheetos. Second, these animals may come to rely on tourists for food, disturbing their eating behavior. This in turns affects their prey (or algae for herbivorous fish), which may overpopulated. The whole ecosystem is thrown off balance.

Soft Coral – don’t feed the fish.

Limit your impact while travelling

Go green ! There are many ways you may reduce your impact on the local environment and community. Start by saving water : shorter shower, reuse your towels, turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth etc… Indeed, in way too many exotic places such as tropical islands, used water is usually just throw back into the sea. You may also cut down on plastic : refill your water bottle, avoid disposable items such as take­away boxes, bring your own plastic bags etc.. The latter can lead to the death of turtles.

Sea Turtle

Dive with endangered species

With the success of the documentary BlackFish, more and more of us have become aware of the cruelty of aquariums. In the wild, a wide array of marine life is equally endangered. From turtles to sharks to rays, responsible travel can boost the value of these mammals alive as opposed to fished out. Some studies estimate that the value of one single living manta ray can be north of $1 million dollars, as opposed to $500 for a dead manta.

As an eco­friendly traveller, you can help make a difference. Use your spending power to tip the scales in favor of the aquatic life by diving with reputable dive centers that contribute to local conservation efforts.

Ethical travel is a hot topic. Individually, it seems these baby steps can’t even start to bring about any long­term change. Yet, collectively, this green attitude and sustainable tourism initiatives can go a long way.