Marine Debris
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Adopt The Blue
Join the Global Community Taking Action for the Ocean
Stand with a global network of ocean advocates and changemakers to protect what you love.
What Does It Mean to Be a Torchbearer?
We are Ocean Torchbearers™—divers, explorers, and everyday advocates—united by a passion for protecting what we love. Through collective action above and below the surface, we’re creating a healthier ocean for this generation and the next. We believe that real change happens when we show up, speak out, and support one another in taking meaningful steps – no matter how big or how small – toward restoring balance between humanity and nature.
Our Torchbearer Community Pledges to:
Take actions that restore balance between humanity and ocean
Be responsible stewards who leave marine ecosystems in an equal or better state
Travel with care-honoring culture and respecting local communities
Inspire others to explore and protect the underwater world
Ocean Torchbearers Turn Passion Into Purpose for the Ocean
From removing marine debris and aiding entangled marine wildlife to restoring vital blue carbon habitats like coral reefs and sea grass, Ocean Torchbearers are driving meaningful change where it’s needed most-helping to address the ocean’s most urgent, human-driven challenges.
Already an Ocean Torchbearer?
Navigate to the AWARE Conservation Action Portal and sign in or sign up.
It's easier than ever to take action, track your contributions, and be part of a growing movement that is shaping the future of our ocean.
Join the Community of Torchbearers Committed to Driving Change for a Healthier Planet
Pledge to protect the ocean and be the first to know about new ways to take action, dive with purpose, and create lasting impact.
Meet the Torchbearers
This movement is powered by people—divers, explorers, and everyday advocates—united by a passion for protecting what they love. Together, we’re creating change-restoring balance between humanity and ocean through meaningful action.
Dr. Sylvia Earle
PADI Emeritus AmbassaDiver and Ocean Torchbearer
Photo: @Tim Taylor
More Torchbearers in Action
The Torchbearer spirit lives in local heroes making waves every day – above and below the surface.
Ocean Torchbearer Award Honorees
PADI Instructors recognized for their extraordinary conservation work and the powerful ripple effects they’ve sparked in their communities.
PADI AmbassaDivers™
Leaders, changemakers, and storytellers using diving as a force for good—lifting up their communities and inspiring others to protect what they love.
The Power of Collective Action
Together, we’re a force for ocean change. With millions more joining us every year, Ocean Torchbearers are the force for good behind the largest database for marine debris on the planet, the reason why PADI AWARE Foundation has helped secure protections for more than 104 species of sharks and rays, and why nearly 35,000 marine animals have been freed from entanglement.
Dive In and Learn How PADI Divers are Protecting the Ocean and Making a Difference
Join the Movement
Your voice. Your story. Your impact. Share how you’re making a difference with #PADITorchbearer and be part of a growing global community of ocean advocates.