Marine Debris and Cleanup

Marine debris is defined as “any persistent, manufactured or processed solid material discarded, disposed of or abandoned in the marine and coastal environment.” (UN Environment Programme, 2009). The Government of Australia notes that “marine debris is harmful to marine life including protected species of birds, sharks, turtles and marine mammals. Marine debris may cause injury or death through drowning, injury through entanglement and internal injuries, or starvation following ingestion.” – Environment SA.

SDFSA encourages its member clubs to participate in cleanup programs and initiatives, such as
• The Australian Marine Debris Initiative of the Tangaroa Blue Foundation 
• Clean Up Australia
• Project Aware’s Dive against Debris 

SDFSA is concerned about the growing accumulation of single-use face mask waste as a byproduct of the Covid 19 pandemic. Read our 2022 report on the challenge and what divers can do about it: Single use face mask waste in our oceans and waterways, by Kerry Cook and Merv Brash, 2021-22 SDFSA Committee members.