Leave nothing behind
Do not leave trash or debris in the sea or coastal areas. Always bring with you a bag to store your trash so you can dispose of them later in an appropriate spot. Do not forget to put them in the recycle bins. You can even bring with a mesh bag with you to collect trash from the ocean!
Use reef-safe sun protection
Most sunscreen contains chemical substances that are harmful to the ocean. For example, Oxybenzone, a chemical commonly found in sunscreen, damages corals' DNA and immune systems, eventually causing coral bleaching and death!
Therefore, when snorkeling, remember to choose reef-safe sunscreen. The chemical-free formula can protect corals, marine life, and your own skin as well! To minimisz the impact on the environment, you can also wear sun protection clothing instead of using excessive sunscreen.
Avoid touching the marine life
Do not feed the fish, marine animals and avoid any contact with the sea bottom, such as stirring sediments, moving rocks, touching corals, collecting species or shells. Observe passively, don't touch!
Plan your entry and exit points
Choose an area with easy access to the water to avoid impacts on the marine environment. You can enter the sea from a sandy zone. If you snorkel offshore, remember to tie your boat to a buoy or park it in deep waters to avoid collision with corals.
Do prior research of the site
When choosing a snorkelling site, find out about the hours, dates and areas allowed for such activity. Respect the protected species and rules for conservation areas. Not only is it a way to protect the environment, it also ensures the snorkelers' safety!
These practices will lead to sustainable snorkeling and keep the underwater world thriving. Remember these tips to protect yourself and the marine environment!
