News

Section

Black Girls Dive Foundation scholars will spend 10 weeks this summer working alongside WHOI researchers.

New Programme Empowers Young Black Girls in Marine Science

In a groundbreaking partnership, the Black Girls Dive Foundation (BGDF) and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) have launched a new programme with a powerful mission. This initiative is aimed at empowering young Black girls to pursue careers in marine science and diving, addressing the lack of diversity in the field.

Diving Talks Conference Showcases Groundbreaking Contributions to Diving and Marine Science

 This prestigious event will offer the public an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the latest advancements and contributions to the field of diving, spanning research into diver health and safety, innovations in diving mechanics, and marine conservation projects.

Exciting lineup for this year's edition

This year’s Diving Talks promises to be just as captivating, featuring a remarkable lineup of speakers who are pioneers and experts in their respective fields:

With its mandate also covering marine-related tourism, the Office is set to play a crucial role in promoting recreational diving and ensuring the health and accessibility of Florida's dive sites.
With its mandate also covering marine-related tourism, the Office is set to play a crucial role in promoting recreational diving and ensuring the health and accessibility of Florida's dive sites.

Florida Opens Office of Ocean Economy

Florida has announced the establishment of the Office of Ocean Economy at Florida Atlantic University. This office will develop the state's blue economy sectors, including maritime industries, aquaculture, and tourism, with a strong emphasis on expanding and improving the recreational dive industry.

Shark nets in New South Wales
Shark nets in New South Wales (Sam Hood, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

Unintended Deaths Soar in NSW Shark Net Program

According to the findings, more than half of the 208 non-target species ensnared in the nets over the past eight months met a grim fate, with 134 animals, including critically endangered grey nurse sharks and leatherback turtles, among the casualties. The figures, made public as the nets were removed for the season, highlight the significant toll the program exacts on marine biodiversity.

Freediver Alessia Zecchini Sets New CMAS World Record

Alessia Zecchini surpassed her previous CMAS Free Immersion world record by 3 meters on April 19th, reaching a depth of 104 meters. Her record dive took her 3min 46sec.

This new FIM record was established during the Camotes Freediving Challenge near Cebu, Philippines, on its second day. This week-long, limited-entry event began on April 17th. In Free Immersion, divers do not use fins and must descend and ascend by pulling themselves along the rope.

Screening of "50 Hours Underwater" at MIDE in Kuala Lumpur

Providing a rare glimpse into the mysterious underwater world, the documentary features captivating stories untold, vibrant visuals, and thought-provoking themes that speak of resilience, triumph and societal issues.

In celebrating the incredible diversity and complexity of the underwater world, along with its numerous characters and issues, the documentary aims to ignite conversations and foster better understanding of, and appreciation for, the deep blue.