As we celebrate World Ecology Day on November 1st, it is crucial to recognize the often-overlooked ecosystems that lie beneath our oceans. While land conservation efforts are important, we must not forget that over 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, and the health of our marine ecosystems is vital to the planet’s overall well-being.
As a PADI Master Scuba Instructor and founder of ScubaFun.ae, I have spent countless hours exploring the depths of the ocean, working to protect these vital ecosystems through various conservation efforts. What I’ve witnessed over the years has been both awe-inspiring and deeply concerning. Our oceans are teeming with life, but they are also choking on the pollution we have inflicted upon them.
The Scale of the Problem: Marine Pollution and Its Ecological Impact
Marine ecosystems are facing a growing crisis. According to estimates, 8 million metric tons of plastic enter our oceans every year. This debris not only pollutes the water but also devastates marine life. Plastic waste and other forms of pollution—such as discarded fishing nets (often referred to as ghost nets), oil spills, and chemical runoff—have left over 40% of the world’s oceans heavily impacted by human activities.
These pollutants break down into microplastics, which are ingested by marine species, entering the food chain and eventually making their way onto our plates. The ecological impact is severe: marine animals are becoming entangled in plastic waste, coral reefs are bleaching at alarming rates, and entire marine food webs are being disrupted.
The health of our oceans is directly linked to the health of the planet. Oceans not only provide a home for millions of species but also play a critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate, producing more than 50% of the oxygen we breathe. When we allow our oceans to deteriorate, we are compromising the very systems that sustain life on Earth.
The Importance of Marine Conservation: More Than Just Water
While land conservation has always been a priority, marine conservation is even more critical because of the sheer size and importance of our oceans. The marine ecosystems not only cover the majority of the Earth but are also home to some of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, deep-sea trenches, and vast kelp forests.
Yet, much of the world’s focus remains on terrestrial conservation. While efforts to save rainforests or protect endangered land species are vital, we must not ignore the fact that life below water is facing an even greater threat. The oceans absorb nearly a third of the CO2 we produce, and without them, climate change would accelerate at an alarming rate.
That’s why marine conservation is not just an environmental issue; it’s a global survival issue. We cannot expect the planet to thrive if we neglect the health of the very waters that sustain it.
The Work I Do: Tackling the Crisis One Dive at a Time
As the founder of ScubaFun, I have been fortunate to work on the front lines of marine conservation efforts in the UAE. Through diving programs, I not only teach people to appreciate the beauty of the underwater world but also educate them about the importance of conservation.
Over the years, I have been involved in numerous projects aimed at preserving marine ecosystems. My team and I have:
- Removed ghost nets and other debris from UAE waters, preventing the entanglement and death of marine species.
- Led coral plantation and inspection initiatives to help rehabilitate damaged reefs, which are critical to the health of marine biodiversity.
- Organized beach clean-ups and worked with local schools to raise awareness about the importance of keeping our oceans clean and plastic-free.
- Installed dolphin tracking systems and participated in dolphin tracing trips to monitor and protect vulnerable dolphin populations in the Arabian Gulf.
Through these efforts, we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that even small actions can have on the marine environment. Every piece of plastic removed, every coral saved, and every dolphin monitored is a step towards restoring balance in our oceans.
How We Can All Make a Difference
While the scale of marine pollution may seem overwhelming, there is still hope. Each of us can play a role in reducing the impact of human activity on our oceans. Simple steps, like reducing plastic consumption, participating in local clean-up events, and supporting sustainable seafood choices, can go a long way in helping to protect marine ecosystems.
At ScubaFun, we continue to emphasize the importance of marine sustainability in all that we do. Whether through educational programs for young divers, hands-on conservation efforts, or collaboration with other organizations, we remain committed to protecting our oceans for future generations.
A Call to Action on World Ecology Day
As we observe World Ecology Day, let us remember that the survival of our oceans is critical to the survival of our planet. The marine ecosystems that cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface are in desperate need of protection, and it is up to all of us to take action.
Through marine conservation efforts, we can make a significant difference. As the UAE continues to lead the way in sustainability, I am proud to contribute through the work I do at ScubaFun. Every dive, every clean-up, and every educational session brings us one step closer to a healthier, more sustainable future.
The oceans have given us so much—it’s time we give back.
Rajani Gupta
Founder, ScubaFun.ae | Marine Sustainability Advocate