Hello fellow ocean enthusiasts!
I’m thrilled to share some incredible news with you today, and with it, my profuse apologies. This was announced back in April on Earth day via Scuba diving Magazine. But with High season in full swing, we got a bit delayed in the announcement this end. Plus, we like to be humble 
Oceans Unlimited, the diving paradise nestled along the stunning Costa Rican coastline, has achieved a remarkable milestone. We are now officially recognized as Costa Rica’s very first PADI ECO Dive Center, marking a significant step towards sustainable diving and marine conservation in this beautiful place
But what does it mean to be a PADI ECO Dive Center, and how does this contribute to Oceans Unlimited’s exciting marine conservation program? Let’s dive right in and explore the depths of this exciting development.
What is a PADI ECO Dive Center ?
Last year, PADI’s long-term partner, The Reef-World Foundation, released their study Sustainability in a Recovering Travel World, which found 95% of divers are looking for sustainable operators when booking a trip, but often struggle to book with confidence.
In response to this, PADI, with the full support of The Reef–World Foundation, has established PADI Eco-Centres, a prestigious credential awarded to those who exhibit continued commitment to conservation efforts that support both the goals and objectives of the PADI Blueprint for Ocean Action and the global agenda to protect the ocean.
The PADI Eco-Centre credentials designate members who exemplify environmental stewardship in their operations, with the ultimate goal is to connect ocean lovers with sustainability leaders in the dive industry through a rigorous verification that gives travellers the confidence that their tourism dollars are going to make a positive impact.
What are the criteria for the ECO Dive Center Rating ?
There are three things that have to be fulfilled in order to be recognized as a PADI ECO Dive Center. They are;
1. Take Part in AWARE’s Adopt the Blue
PADI Eco-Centres must adopt and protect at least one local dive site through PADI AWARE’s Adopt the Blue programme, which is the world’s largest network of ocean conservation sites on the planet and a pre-cursor to establishing protection in the area.
2. Being a Green Fins Member
PADI Eco-Centres must also be a Reef-World’s Green Fins Member and practice the environmental guidelines outlined to ensure sustainability.
Operated by the United Nations, the Green Fins Membership exists to protect the ocean’s eco-system and can be obtained through an in-person assessment with a local Green Fins team or online through a digital membership. Once verified as a member, the dive centre or resort commits to creating and enacting a minimum of three conservation actions as well as adhering to the Green Fins Code of Conduct – an internationally recognized best environmental practice for divers.
3. Achieving a Threshold of Conservation Achievement
For Oceans Unlimited, we take all of these very seriously, and engage in a number of activities to increase our conservation impact. Here’s what sets Oceans Unlimited apart as an ECO Dive Center:
How Oceans Unlimited contributes to Marine Conservation
Our journey to becoming a PADI ECO Dive Center aligns seamlessly with our long-standing commitment to marine conservation. Here are some ways in which we contribute to preserving Costa Rica’s breathtaking marine environments:
1. Coral Restoration: Oceans Unlimited actively supports coral restoration initiatives, working hand in hand with MCCR to rehabilitate damaged reefs. We offer training and opportunities for divers to get involved in coral planting and monitoring activities.
2. Eco-Education: Education is a cornerstone of our approach. We provide our divers with comprehensive information about the marine ecosystems they explore, raising awareness about the threats they face and inspiring a sense of responsibility for their protection.
3. Plastic-Free Initiatives: Oceans Unlimited actively promotes a plastic-free dive environment. We organize regular beach clean-ups and encourage divers to participate, helping to reduce the plastic pollution that plagues our oceans.
4. Community Involvement: We collaborate closely with local communities, involving them in our conservation efforts. This fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for the marine ecosystems, ensuring long-term sustainability.
At Oceans Unlimited, we believe in the power of diving to inspire change. Together, we can make a significant impact on marine conservation in Costa Rica. Dive in with us and be part of this incredible journey to protect and cherish our oceans for generations to come.
If you’re ready to experience the magic of Costa Rica’s underwater world while making a positive impact, book your eco-friendly adventure with Oceans Unlimited today!
Thank you for being a part of our mission to protect and conserve the oceans we hold so dear.
Happy Diving!
The Team at Oceans Unlimited
Want to take part in an Eco friendly dive adventure?
Come join us on one of our dive trips or PADI courses. Maybe come learn about our coral restoration project.