Conservation and Sustainability
At Forster Dive Centre, we are deeply committed to preserving the marine environment and promoting sustainable practices in all our operations. Our passion for diving goes hand-in-hand with our dedication to protecting the underwater world for future generations.
Climate change has a negative effect on the marine environment, including warming sea temperatures and ocean acidification. Our company’s commitment to tackle climate change by implementing a
range of emission reduction measures, and by evaluating and measuring
our carbon footprint. Here’s how we’re making a difference:
Marine Conservation Efforts
Spot a Shark Program:
We actively participate in the Spot a Shark program, where we identify and monitor Grey Nurse Sharks at our dive sites. By collecting and sharing data on these magnificent creatures, we contribute to their protection and help define their habitats. learn more about our Grey Nurse Sharks Click Here
Clean-Up Dives:
As a 100% PADI AWARE dive centre, we organize regular clean-up dives to remove debris from our local waters. These efforts not only keep our dive sites pristine but also contribute valuable data to marine conservation initiatives.
Educational Outreach:
We believe in the power of education to foster a deeper appreciation for marine life. Our team provides educational briefings before each dive, highlighting the importance of marine conservation and responsible diving practices. We also hold Shark and Conservation info nights open to everyone.
Sustainable Business Practices
Waste Reduction:
Forster Dive Centre is committed to reducing waste and championing low-waste alternatives. We recycle all possible waste materials and contribute to the Return and Earn initiative. Funds collected from the Return an Earn program are invested back into sustainable initiatives and charities. We
also use reusable water bottles and provide water on
board to minimize the use of single-use plastic bottles.
Paper-Free Operations:
In
our commitment to sustainability, we have transitioned to a paper-free business model. All waivers, forms, and communications are processed digitally, reducing our environmental footprint and promoting efficiency. For essential printed materials, we use recycled paper for our marketing materials, further minimizing our impact on the environment
Eco-Friendly Equipment:
We invest in high-quality, eco-friendly dive equipment and ensure that our gear is well-maintained to minimize waste and environmental impact.
Sustainable Tourism:
Our Dive Centre and whale watching business, Gadhu Dreamland, is dedicated to responsible tourism practices. We strive to educate our guests about marine life and the importance of conservation while providing unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Low Impact Diving Practices
Forster Dive Centre is committed to minimizing its impact on the marine environment.
To achieve this, we have implemented important low-impact diving
practices, which includes not dropping anchors on the reef (on sand only), minimizing
all potential contact with the reef, and educating our guests on how to
maintain neutral buoyancy to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem.
Forster Dive Cenrte is a recognised digital member of the Green Fins initiative, implemented internationally by The Reef-World Foundation
and the UN Environment Programme, and follows the Green Fins Code of
Conduct best practices for both above and below the water.
Community Engagement:
We aim to support the local community by employing Aboriginal coxswains and deckhands for our whale watching tours, promoting cultural heritage and providing meaningful employment opportunities.
We actively engage the local community through partnerships and educational programs. Collaborating with Tobwabba, we promote Indigenous cultural heritage and marine conservation. We also participate in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), offering inclusive diving experiences, fostering a love for the ocean and a sense of environmental responsibility. This helps us build an informed and passionate community dedicated to protecting our marine ecosystems.
Continuous Improvement
Feedback and Adaptation:
We actively seek feedback from our customers through platforms like Facebook, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews. By listening to our clients, we continuously adapt and improve our practices to better serve our community and the environment.
At Forster Dive Centre, we believe that every dive is an opportunity to make a positive impact. Join us in our mission to protect the ocean and experience the wonders of the underwater world responsibly.
For more information on our conservation efforts or to get involved, please contact us or visit our dive centre. Together, we can make a difference!
