Environmental Best Practices for Freedivers

• Observe marine life from a distance — never touch, chase, or feed animals

• Avoid blocking an animal’s path or surrounding it

• Do not ride, grab, or attempt to interact with marine creatures

• Remember: stress can harm animals even if no physical contact is made

• The ocean is not a playground — it is a living ecosystem.

• Enter the water with calmness and respect

• Adapt to ocean conditions rather than forcing a dive

• Accept that sometimes the best decision is not to dive

• Respect marine protected areas and no-take zones

• Choose dive operators and freediving schools that follow eco-practices

• Support local communities that protect marine environments

• Share knowledge and lead by example

• Good technique protects both you and the environment.

• Control descents and ascents to avoid reef contact

• Use proper weighting to maintain neutral buoyancy

• Avoid unnecessary dives in sensitive or restricted areas

• Follow local diving guidelines and marine sanctuary rules

• Corals are living organisms and extremely fragile.

• Maintain proper buoyancy to avoid kicking or brushing corals

• Avoid standing or resting on reefs, rocks, or seabed

• Be mindful of fin movements, especially in shallow areas

• Never collect corals, shells, or marine souvenirs

• Many common sunscreens contain chemicals harmful to coral reefs.

• Choose reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen

• Apply sunscreen at least 20–30 minutes before entering the water

• When possible, wear rash guards or wetsuits instead of sunscreen

What you bring with you should leave with you.

• Do not throw anything into the ocean — even biodegradable items

• Secure all gear to prevent loss underwater

• Pick up trash when safe to do so (even if it’s not yours)

• Avoid stirring sediment that can smother corals and marine life