Our Ocean Needs More Marine Conservation Volunteers
It must come as no surprise that due to global warming our coral reefs are in great danger. In fact, many species found on the West Coast came close to extinction in 2023, whilst many others endured significant bleaching as a result of rising sea surface temperatures, which makes them far more susceptible to disease and mortality.
This is why marine conservation volunteer abroad programs are extremely vital when ensuring the survival and evolution of our reef systems. At Freestyle Divers, we are running Project REEFrame, which is a community-led mission that launched in 2020 to restore and protect coastal ecosystems in the UAE. Everyone is welcome, so no matter your age, interests or skill set, we would be delighted to have you on board.
Discover More About Marine Conservation Volunteer Abroad Programs
Project REEFrame didn’t just happen overnight, in fact, the Freestyle Divers team invested over two years of concentrated research, planning and dedication to get to where we are today. To help you understand a little bit more about how the project works, and why marine conservation volunteer abroad programs are so essential, check out the UAE marine conservation phases as listed below:
Phase 1
Our goal here was to create a new lease of life in an otherwise empty and barren area, and we’re pleased to say that it was a huge success! The site is now full of activity, with over 100 identified species that have been recruited to this area thanks to the new coral reefs we developed here. If we can recruit 100+ species in the first 9 months, just imagine the impact this will have on our ecosystems in years to come!
Phase 2
The second phase is all about development. We now know what works and what needs to be done, and it’s time to increase and expand! Our aim is that by 2025, our footprint will grow to 10,000m2, as well as our knowledge and expertise in the project to ensure efficient and radical improvements to our local marine ecosystems.
Where Would we be Without Marine Conservation Programs?
Due to ocean warming and rising sea levels, ocean acidification and increased sedimentation, an increase in plastic pollution and decline in coral species, our ocean is under threat and is struggling to withstand these additional pressures. Were you aware that the ocean is responsible for more than 50% of our oxygen, as well as absorbing carbon dioxide and excess heat? This is a vital process, but just like any overloaded system, it is in danger of collapse if things continue without action. Can you see now just how important it is to have as many marine conservation volunteers as possible, working together to mitigate these threats? Then come and join us at Freestyle Divers and be a part of the solution.
How to Become a Marine Conservation Volunteer
Think you’ve got what it takes to be a marine conservation volunteer? You’ll be pleased to hear that we welcome your support of any kind. So, if you’re a diver, we can teach you the exciting role of collecting and propagating coral. But if you’re not, we can either teach you to dive or get you involved in the many valuable land-based activities that will really support our cause.
Simply click here to sign up and let us know about your current skills or interests. Once complete, you will receive your very own Project REEFrame volunteer information pack. We simply can’t wait any longer to take a stand against the destruction of our ocean, so what do you say, are you ready to join us?