With so much plastic, it's not a paradise under water anymore, say divers

Time of India

04-06-2025

This World Environment Day, as the world focuses on the theme 'Ending Plastic Pollution', environmentalists bring in a reality check of the world beneath where oceans are clogged with plastic, from large debris to microplastics that are risking marine life and worsening climate change at the same time.
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'Marine life is the foundation of the ocean environment and saving it means protecting the biodiversity of our planet that supports fisheries, tourism and oxygen,' says Dr Ira, an environmental science professor.
'NO ONE SEES THE SAD REALITY UNDERNEATH THE OCEAN'
According to the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), plastics make up around 55-57% of marine litter, such as ghost nets, discarded bottles, single-use plastics, snack wrappers, etc.
'The beauty of the ocean is glorified on the internet, but we, divers, see the sad reality beneath it. And increasingly, we are seeing only plastic wrapped around coral reefs. The water may seem clean from the shore, but go even 10 metres deep and one can see how plastic is altering entire ecosystems,' says Aatish, a diving instructor.
By collecting plastic waste from beach clean-ups and fishing communities, we not only reduce ocean pollution at the source but also build a narrative around the importance of land-tosea plastic interception
Victoria D'Souza
'NOT JUST A COASTAL PROBLEM'
'Microplastics are a huge concern. They're being ingested by fish, turtles, even phytoplankton—the base of the ocean food pyramid.
These then work their way up into the fish we consume,' says ecologist Dr Meenakshi Venkataraman. 'It's not just a coastal problem anymore, it's global. We often say, 'make a difference on every dive'. But to clean our oceans, the work must begin before anything ever reaches the sea. That's the shift we need,' says one diver of PADI.
'RECYCLING OCEAN DEBRIS IS A STEP FORWARD IN SAVING MARINE ECOSYSTEM'
According to a report by the Central Pollution Control Board, India, India generates approximately 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste every year, and only 30% of it is recycled.
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A recycling centre in Bengaluru transforms the coastal plastic debris into functional materials like interlocking tiles for roads and pavements. 'Our recycled tiles serve as functional symbols of the crisis. When people walk on these tiles, they're stepping on what was once choking the ocean.
It's awareness, action, and infrastructure rolled into one,' shared Victoria D'Souza, co-founder of a recycling centre in Bengaluru.
When people learn about ocean pollution and then participate in cleanup drives, they develop a personal connection with the planet. This inspires them to become lifelong guardians of the marine world
– Keith, a diving instructor in Goa
Tips and tricks for a safe dive clean-up
■ Never dive alone; always dive with a buddy to ensure constant communication and assistance.
■ Plan your dive route, depth limits, and safety procedures.
■ Thoroughly check all diving equipment (BC, regulator, dive computer, etc.) to ensure it's in good working order before diving.
■ Use a mesh bag to carry debris, but do not overfill it. End the dive when the bag reaches its weight limit (4 kg/7 lbs)
■ Dive within your skill level and comfort zone, avoiding dives beyond your experience.