As another year draws to a close, and what a year it has been, here at Project AWARE®, we are reflecting on key moments that contributed to uniting for ocean protection.

When we come together, online or offline, for a shared goal, we can do amazing things, and you've proven that so thank you for each and every action you have taken for the ocean during this challenging year, however big or small. 

2020 Key Moments

Blue Manifesto

Project AWARE joined environmental NGOs in Europe to make our ocean healthy by 2030. Launched in January 2020, the Blue Manifesto lays out concrete actions that must be delivered by set dates in order to turn the tide on the ever-degraded and polluted ocean and coastlines.

United for Biodiversity

Nature-based solutions offer the best way to achieve human well-being, tackle climate change, and protect our living planet. Yet nature is in crisis. Project AWARE mobilized its global community to take action for #Biodiversity2020

Bringing the Ocean Home

Project AWARE responded to the unprecedented COVID-19 outbreak by taking fins off actions that keep people, passionate about ocean conservation, connected during this crisis. Above and beneath the waves, or from our homes, we stood together for a healthy ocean planet.

New Research Study Informed by Dive Against Debris® Data

Connecting the dots: Dive Against Debris Data® informed a global research study published by the Journal of Environmental Pollution in partnership with scientists at CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and the Ocean Conservancy. The study evaluates the relationship between land-based debris and what is found on corresponding seafloors.

Saving the Ocean Together

Staying true to our values of collaboration and knowing we are stronger together, our community not only includes individual ocean lovers but also businesses, NGOs and corporate partners who share our passion for the underwater world. Over the last 12 months, we have continued our work with the Shark League, Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI), Seas At Risk, and our 100% AWARE partners to name just a few.

Scuba divers have been carrying the Project AWARE torch for ocean protection since the late 1980's. Time and time again, the dive community has proven that their collective actions and support matter. 2020, was no different despite the challenges of a global pandemic.

A New Year of Ocean Possibilities Begins

As a new chapter begins for Project AWARE, 2021 is sure to bring ample opportunities for the dive community to continue to take actions that heal and protect the ocean. Throughout the course of 2021, we’ll be rolling out new features and additions to the PADI website (including interactive experiences) to help connect you with ways to stand up for the underwater world. Conservation-focused courses, events, and activities at PADI Dive Centers and Resorts will be easier than ever to find and participate in.

We invite you to join the global community of Torchbearers to get the latest updates on all the new tools that we’ll launch for the PADI Torchbearer Community to monitor and track their conservation impact. 

Although we find ourselves in a time where the ocean and indeed the planet has never been under so much threat, together we are making a difference. Thank you for your continuous commitment to driving change and protection for the ocean. Thank you for keeping the ocean close to your heart during this challenging year.

Photo by jae bano on Unsplash