Factors Caused By Recreational Scuba Diving And Snorkeling...

Globally, marine ecosystems, in particular, coral reefs, are experiencing increasing pressure due to the growth in recreational scuba diving, and snorkeling. Pressure refers to the frequency, and quantity of divers, and dive boats on any particular reef. This pressure often results in damage to the reef, and is caused by divers, snorkelers, and even dive boat anchors, and anchor lines, furthermore, this damage takes significant time to repair, due to the rate at which coral grows, and repairs itself. Although this damage is not irreparable, continual pressure by recreational dive and snorkeling industries, can lead to damage beyond the reef’s ability to recover. Damaged reefs result in loss of sea life, vibrancy, and color, the primary draw for divers, snorkelers, and other marine enthusiasts. Consequently, this damage extends to the economies of the local communities, in which water related activities are a primary source of revenue. To sustain these local communities’ economies, and tourist enjoyment, private SCUBA organizations can coordinate, and facilitate options to reduce the recreational damage of the ocean’s reef system through education, artificial reef attractions, and alternative dive programs. SCUBA diving is a growing, and global recreational sport, with one certification agency, PADI, claiming an â€Å"annual average of 900,000 new diver certifications globally†. Of course, not all of these new divers will continue on to become frequent, or repeat divers, however,Show MoreRelated Will Jamaica Self-Destruct? Essay3136 Words   |  13 Pagesof 1.0 percent in 1997. Tourism is Jamaica’s most important industry besides the mining of bauxite (accounts for more than half of exports). It is the country’s largest foreign exchange earner, (generating approximately US$965 million annually) and is still one of its fastest growing industries. These profitable service industries depend on the island and its natural beauty–pure air, abundant sunshine, and clean sandy beaches. This industry is evidence to the close relationship between economic well