The global membership diaspora of PADI Ocean Torchbearers now ranks among the world’s most listened-to, influential and active diver citizen-scientists and ocean caretakers. Our collective purpose has connected and galvanized PADI’s global commitment to ocean stewardship. Recognizing that the ocean and humanity are co-dependent, we train divers to immerse, gain confidence, explore and care for the sea. This all began to scale and accelerate in meaningful ways when we launched the PADI Mission during the 50th anniversary year.

Through the leadership of PADI Members across the planet, we are aligning the Ocean Torchbearer world to a greater, action-oriented purpose – one that is cross-border, cross-cultural and cross-conflict. PADI Members and PADI Divers are not simply underwater visitors or explorers, but protectors and preservers – a juggernaut of local ocean lovers and stewards who collectively make a global difference. This is a hallmark of the PADI brand ethos.

PADI AWARE’s Blueprint for Ocean Action focuses on ocean debris (Dive Against Debris), expanding MPAs (Marine Protected Areas), and restoring habitats while protecting threatened species. PADI Divers, staff and Members interact to help shape a more positive future for the oceans through increased conservation and sustainability.

Significant recent accomplishments include:

  • 43,000+ entangled marine animals released, and 29,000+ debris surveys submitted
  • Assisting the development of a Global Plastics Treaty with Dive Against Debris data and 14,500+ Ocean Torchbearer signatures
  • Creating over 3,600 Adopt the Blue sites in 115 countries, laying the groundwork for the development of Marine Protected Areas
  • Elevating the voice of the diving community at CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) while securing added protection for 104 threatened shark and ray species
padi aware dive againt debris

As you know, the PADI AWARE Shark & Ray Conservation Specialty course trains divers to contribute to the Global Shark & Ray Census. It’s believed that about one-third of these animals are threatened or endangered, but actual numbers are scarce – most estimates are based on conjecture. Just as our Dive Against Debris work engaged hundreds of thousands of divers to participate in citizen-science projects and help create the world’s most comprehensive underwater debris database, the Global Shark & Ray Census will also make a meaningful difference with your support and leadership.

As we push forward into PADI’s 60th year, millions of combined actions by divers will continue to forge a path to a positive ocean future. Constructive choices made by the global PADI Member leadership will inspire others to do the same, making a positive difference. From this perspective, ours is truly a “dive life well lived” – one which, by combining hope with action, focuses our purpose for the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Drew Richardson
President & CEO

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