BSAC members demonstrated their commitment to cleaner waters and the marine environment at the 2025 Go Diving Show, by adding personal pledges to a 'pledge wall'.
The health of our oceans is in crisis. From plastic pollution and overfishing to coral bleaching and habitat destruction, the marine environment is facing threats that not only impact the creatures that call the sea home but also the global ecosystem. The good news is that each of us has the power to make a difference. By making a pledge to protect the marine environment, we can work together to ensure the sustainability of our oceans for future generations.
I'll spread the love for the sea.
I promise to remove rubbish on every dive!
Why the marine environment matters
Marine pollution, particularly plastic waste, is one of the most pressing concerns. Every year, millions of tons of plastic enter the oceans, harming wildlife and disrupting ecosystems. Fish and other marine animals often mistake plastic debris for food, leading to ingestion, entanglement, and even death. In addition to pollution, climate change is causing ocean temperatures to rise, leading to the bleaching of coral reefs and the disruption of marine species' migration patterns.
Steve Backshall, Andy Torbet and Monty Halls make pledges
Following a main stage question-and-answer session, celebrity divers Steve Backshall (of TV's Deadly 60), Monty Halls and Andy Torbet took their time to add their pledges to the BSAC wall.
Perfect my buoyancy - avoid damage...
Get involved - make a pledge!
Here are some simple but impactful ways you can contribute to the protection of the marine environment:
Reduce plastic usage: One of the most important pledges you can make is to reduce your consumption of single-use plastics. Carry a reusable water bottle, use cloth shopping bags, and avoid products with excessive plastic packaging. Choose alternatives like glass, metal, or biodegradable materials.
Participate in beach cleans and underwater litter picks: Join local beach clean-up initiatives or organise your own with friends and family. Take a bag and make sure you remove rubbish on every dive. Encourage others to get involved or organise your own.
Support sustainable seafood choices: Overfishing is a major problem for marine ecosystems. By choosing seafood that is sustainably sourced, you are helping to protect fish populations and reduce the pressure on marine habitats. Look for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label to ensure the products you buy are sustainably harvested.
Advocate for marine conservation policies: Write to your local MP or take part in BSAC's Motion for the Ocean to put pressure on authorities for change.
Reduce your carbon footprint: Climate change is affecting the oceans in more ways than one. Rising temperatures are causing coral reefs to bleach, and melting ice is contributing to rising sea levels. By taking steps to reduce your carbon footprint - whether through using public transport, cutting back on energy consumption, or supporting clean energy initiatives - you are helping combat the larger issue of climate change.
I will organise a beach clean every year
I will set up an Underwater Surveyor course for my club
Katherine Knight, BSAC's Chair of Environment and Sustainability Group said:
It is fantastic to see so many pledges on the wall. It shows that divers have a real passion for the marine environment. I am excited about supporting BSAC members and branches to bring their pledges to life. It is important to remember that although individual actions can start small, they all add up to make a real difference.
Mary Tetley, BSAC CEO said:
As custodians of the sea our members understand the threat facing our waters as well as anyone, and it was great to see so many pledges added to our wall at the Go Diving Show! The fight to protect the marine environment is an urgent one, but by making a pledge to take action, we can ensure that future generations inherit healthier seas. I would urge all members to consider what positive steps they can take to have a lasting and meaningful effect on the environment.
