restoration efforts to succeed long-term. 2. Trash and Debris Removal: TRAINING continued The second principle provides immediate, tangible envi- ronmental benefit and instills a sense of accountability. Our youth advocates are mobilized in large-scale cleanup efforts. This principle moves the abstract problem of plastic pollu- tion into a physical reality they can control and remove. By
ment of vital marine habitats. It is the most rewarding step, proving that direct human intervention can successfully re- verse environmental decline. Scaling the Vision: Transforming the Caribbean Basin: Our current operational strategy is focused on a dual ex- pansion model designed to transform the entire Caribbean Basin into a decentralized network of restoration sites.
participating in the recovery of tens of thousands of pounds of trash and debris, participants gain first- hand knowledge of human impact. This work not only cleans the ocean but removes persistent contaminants that smother coral and degrade water quality, directly supporting the survivability of the ecosystem we aim to restore. 3. Coral Ecosystem Monitoring:
In the Florida Keys National Ma- rine Sanctuary, the DWP/CARES initiative is focusing intensely on a specific, vulnerable site in the Islam- orada area. We are working closely with I.CARE and Key Dives to trans- form this reef into a model restora- tion site. By concentrating our resources, in- cluding the acquisition of new train-
Maritime Archaeology Training Program
ing technology like underwater communication systems, we will drastically increase our outplanting efficiency and the quality of citizen science monitoring. This strategic scale- up of fragments – following our proven success in out- planting over 10,000 coral fragments to date – will create a high-density, resilient carbon sink while providing a power- ful, verifiable case study for replication. Simultaneously, we are executing our international expan- sion throughout the Caribbean Basin by partnering directly with individual islands. The success of training youth from islands like Barbados has demonstrated the model's high replicability. The expertise shared through partnerships with leaders like marine scientist Dr. Andre Miller and organiza-
The third principle grounds the youth in real-world citizen science. Using advanced dive techniques, CARES partici- pants are trained to systematically monitor the health of coral reefs. This involves surveying for key indicator species, documenting the presence of diseases like Stony Coral Tis- sue Loss Disease (SCTLD), and mapping reef structures. By acting as the eyes and hands for professional marine sci- entists, the youth contribute invaluable data to institutions like NOAA and Mote Marine Lab. This continuous moni- toring ensures restoration efforts are adaptive and evidence- based, while also solidifying the participants’ scientific methodology and critical thinking skills.
tions like Barbados Blue allows us to tailor our curriculum to local ecolog- ical and cultural needs across the re- gion. The goal is not to execute every project ourselves but to establish a decentralized chapter system, em- powering local youth leaders to take the helm of their own island’s marine resources. The Role of the Dive Industry:
4. Ocean Healing through Coral and Sponge Outplanting: The final principle is direct, proac- tive mitigation. After mastering the foundational skills, youth are trained in coral and sponge outplanting techniques. This is the Ocean Heal- ing component, where they actively participate in restoring reef struc- ture. Using fragments grown in nurs- eries maintained by partners like
Maritime Archaeology Training Program
I.CARE and organizations associated with Reef Renewal Inc., participants meticulously secure new coral fragments onto damaged reefs. This work directly contributes to car- bon sequestration, coastal protection, and the re-establish-
Conscious Exploration and Career Pathways: The success of this scaling vision requires the commit- ment of the Dive Industry as partners and leaders. The
FORTY-THREE | SCUBA DIVING INDUSTRY
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