Deep dive: Protecting the world’s oceans

Aqualung

The world’s oceans cover 71% of the surface of our planet and are home to millions of marine species.  They play a critical role in mitigating the impact of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2)  released by human activities, thereby contributing significantly towards social and economic development,  as well as overall human well-being.

Protecting marine biodiversity and preventing the deterioration of the ocean’s health is therefore of the utmost importance.

Aqualung Group’s deep connection to the oceans, seas, and marine resources began in 1943 when Jacques-Yves Cousteau teamed with Émile Gagnan to develop the first  ‘aqua-lung’ that made underwater exploration possible and accessible to all. Today, the Aqualung Group continues to be a leading global designer and manufacturer of scuba dive equipment and water sports gear for recreational and professional use.

In 2020, Aqualung further strengthened its environmental approach by designing eco-friendly dive wet suits and swimwear, using fabric made from recycled plastic bottles and scrap rubber tires. Through its brands,  Aqualung collaborates with like-minded partners to improve the oceans’ health. Aqualung also streamlined its packing solutions, significantly reducing the use of plastic bags,  and has started measuring environmental KPIs in order to track its progress.

Several of Aqualung’s facilities have taken actions to reduce their environmental footprint, and one of the manufacturing plants is already producing over 1800kwH  of clean energy per day by using rooftop solar panels,  representing 80% of the electricity needed in the daily operations. In addition, its warehouse is utilising Solatube technologies to provide natural light and is equipped with motion sensors to power down any equipment, not in use.

In the future, Aqualung aims to become an environmental leader within its industry. Through the help of its ‘global task force’, Aqualung will continue to work with each department to reduce the carbon footprint and adopt a circular economy business model.

Through its environmental initiatives, Aqualung is contributing to SDG 8, 12, and 14.

I spent a lot of time at sea, but I still find it shocking to see the amount of plastic and litter dumped into the oceans. About 70% of the oxygen we breathe is produced by the oceans, and there is an urgent need to reduce our environmental footprint. Aqualung Group shares my passion for protecting our oceans by contributing  to a circular economy.

 

ROMAN PILLIARD, Founder of Use It Again!,  Solo skipper and Aqualung Group Brand Ambassador