Most divers are always looking for ways to help the ocean. After all, the ocean is integral to everything we do, whether diving is a job, a hobby, or your entire life. It makes sense that we put in an effort to protect the thing we love most.

You may be wondering how to celebrate without being able to organize the usual activities, like a Dive Against Debris or local beach clean-up. However, there are still ways you can help the ocean from the comfort of your own home.

When the pandemic ends, and life returns to normal, the ocean will be there to thank you!

1. Skip single-use plastic if you’re ordering take-out

Since restaurants are closed around the world, many of us are ordering take-out more than usual. While it’s great to support local businesses, this can also take a toll on the environment with the extra plastic and trash that come with take-out packaging.

If you’re ordering in, make sure to request that single-use plastic isn’t in the bag. We are all eating at our homes with full access to silverware, so there’s no need to have plastic forks and knives. Some restaurants will even allow you to bring your own reusable container for the food – note that COVID-19 has changed this in some areas, so make sure to call ahead to confirm.

Just remember that if you don’t need a single-use item, don’t use it! The convenience isn’t worth the harm it causes our ocean and the marine life that call it home.

2. Use your voice to advocate for a cause

Right now, people are online more than ever before. Since many people are working from home or finding themselves with free time, more time is spent browsing social media, reading articles, and looking through online resources.

One of the easiest ways you can help the ocean is to use your voice to advocate for a cause. We all have a network of friends and family who care about what we have to say. And, as divers, we have a wealth of knowledge about a world many people don’t have access to – the ocean.

Use your voice – post on social media, write a blog, or organize a virtual watch party for a documentary – to spread awareness and educate people on an issue you’re passionate about. From plastic pollution to global warming, there are a lot of important issues you can address!

3. Stay home and do nothing!

This one should be too easy! No matter where you are in the world, the government is asking you to stay home and do nothing. This means that for once, the Earth – and the ocean – is going to get a break from human activity.

There is less pollution in the air, less boat traffic in the ocean, and less tourism putting a strain on coral reefs. Finally, the ocean can rest. When we can finally dive again, just think how beautiful it will be!

Plus, practicing social distancing and self-isolation is recommended to help put an end to the pandemic. And the sooner COVID-19 ends, the sooner life can return to normal…which means we can finally backroll off a dive boat into the ocean again!