Scuba divers as agents of education for sustainable development in Malta

Abstract

A case study approach was used to explore the capacity of scuba diving as a significant life experience, and the level of responsibility adopted by a community of local divers in Malta. The case explored the roots of advocacy and action through in depth qualitative interviews with five local marine advocates, quantitative questionnaires with individual divers, observations at professional dive centre association, and document research. The research identified patterns of behavioural change within these different groups, and identified perceived barriers to local marine conservation. Website reviews were conducted of both the professional dive centre association and five additional individual dive centres, to explore the level of coherence between the promoted principles and engaged topics of the association. The study assessed the current capacity of scuba divers as agents of Education for Sustainable Development, and recommended ways forward in which they can be utilized further. The study concludes that scuba diving and time spend in natural environments are recognized by both advocates and individuals divers, as having played a key role in shaping environmental sensitivity and advocacy. Other influential variables emerged which can be incorporated into enhancing educational scuba diving experiences. A lack of national stakeholder participation and support, along with a lack of enforcement were identified within the case as chief barriers to effective marine management in Malta. While the professional association of dive centres were engaging topics related to sustainable industry operation, tension within the industry itself and a lack of human resources to execute wider projects were hindering its capacity for wider change. The case study concludes with a new behavioural model for scuba divers as agents for education for sustainable development, emphasising the need for more collaborative and educational partnerships. This community based approach to transformative education can direct both formal and informal educational initiatives, to maximise opportunity for wider civil marine advocacy in Malta.