Supporting ‘Motion for the Ocean’ is YOUR opportunity to help drive change for cleaner, healthier waters.
Our ocean and waterways are at a tipping point and need our help. Ocean recovery is vitally important to help in the fight against the climate emergency.
As divers and snorkellers we see first-hand the impact of pollution, habitat destruction and climate change on our waters. Now, anyone passionate about protecting the ocean — whether a BSAC member or not — has the chance to make a real difference by supporting Motion for the Ocean.
What is Motion for the Ocean?
Motion for the Ocean is an initiative that calls on councils across the UK to recognise the importance of a healthy ocean and commit to real action for ocean recovery. By passing a ‘Motion for the Ocean’, councils pledge to “think ocean” in local decision-making, helping to create cleaner, healthier seas and waterways for everyone.
Since its launch in 2021, more than 30 councils across England and Wales (representing over 4.5 million residents) have already passed a Motion for the Ocean. But there are a lot of councils yet to take action. Every local authority — whether coastal or inland — has the power to make a meaningful impact on the future of our waters.
The Motion for the Ocean is now taking a new turn in terms of working with the scuba diving and snorkelling community to support then in contacting their councils. It’s easy to do!
Led by award-winning experts
Emily Cunningham MBE, award winning ocean conservation expert, Motion for the Ocean co-founder (and BSAC member!), explains:
Local authorities cannot solve the ocean crisis alone, but they can and must play their part. I am thrilled to work with the BSAC diving and snorkelling community to help us grow the number of councils taking action to help our ocean and waterways!
How divers and snorkellers can get involved
We believe, together as a community, we can take the number of councils to 100 and beyond!
It's easy for anyone who loves the ocean to take action. A simple email to your local council could be the catalyst for real change.
Follow these simple steps:
- Check if your council has already passed a Motion for the Ocean - Use the map below to find out:
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If not, contact your local councillor – Use the easy-to-follow Motion for the Ocean Toolkit to write to your local representative and urge them to take action.
- Spread the word – Encourage fellow members, divers, snorkellers, friends and family to do the same. Post on social media, tag your council, and raise awareness.
- Tell us! – If you contact your council, PLEASE let us know at m4to@bsac.com. We want to track our collective impact and support you along the way.
- Even if your council has already passed a Motion for the Ocean, then we still need your help! Check out our Motion for the Ocean Toolkit for all the information you will need on making sure your council is delivering their commitments.
Empowering divers and snorkellers to lead the change
Many divers and snorkellers are already engaged in hands-on conservation efforts, from underwater and beach cleans to planting seagrass. By getting involved with Motion for the Ocean, you can amplify your impact further by helping to secure real policy commitments for ocean recovery.
To recognise those who successfully get their council to pass a Motion for the Ocean, we’re offering:
✅ Special certificates signed by co-founder Emily Cunningham MBE
✅ Custom graphics for your dive club’s website and social media
✅ Recognition by BSAC in its communications as National Governing Body of scuba diving and snorkelling
Join the movement – Take action for ocean recovery
Change starts with a single step. Use our Motion for the Ocean Toolkit to get started today and be part of the movement fighting for the future of our waters.
Any questions, please get in touch with us at m4to@bsac.com
