[Coral-List] #oceanoptimism, sort of...

[Steve Mussman]

Great idea Brendan, 
Some basic coral reef/marine ecology should play a more significant role in scuba diving course curricula, but so far all the certification agencies and DEMA (Diving Equipment Manufacturers Association) have steered clear of taking any significant steps to address the principle issues involved in coral reef degradation (land-based pollutants, over-fishing and climate change). Ironically, I received an email from DEMA at the same time that your post appeared and in it they actually showed what they are capable of doing if they perceive it to be in their best interest. The mass email was aimed at bringing attention to their role (along with a number of environmental groups) in litigation designed to stop the Port Everglades expansion dredging project which threatens coral reefs in that area. In it, the President and CEO of DEMA was quoted as saying that "The reefs provide huge environmental and economic benefits to South Florida. This is a positive step for the entire recreational diving community, especially in Fort Lauderdale, which depends upon a healthy reef environment”. “DEMA is determined to help protect the natural reef from destruction so that many generations to come can continue to enjoy the opportunity to see, first-hand, this unique and precious natural resource.”        Now that is more like it and this is exactly what we need the diving industry to do, but we all know that if they are really serious about coral reef conservation they need to take the next step and promote industry-wide action on climate change as well.

   Regards,
    Steve    


-----Original Message-----
>From: Brendan Turley <crabtails at gmail.com>
>Sent: Jan 24, 2017 10:46 AM
>To: coral-list at coral.aoml.noaa.gov, sale at uwindsor.ca
>Subject: Re: [Coral-List] #oceanoptimism, sort of...
>
>Hi Peter,
>
>In response to serious matters to address ocean conservation. What about,
>as a small measure, approaching PADI and other certification groups to
>including a conservation module to basic open water diver certification? I
>understand that logistically this could be difficult, but small steps could
>contribute to progress.
>
>It seems as help from the top governmental levels at least in US is likely
>waning, we should seek out private sector help to secure a shared interest..
>I am not suggesting a novel panaceia, in all likelihood this has been tried
>before, but I thought it would be worth a mention.
>
>Cheers,
>Brendan Turley
>PhD student
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