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The Third International Conference on Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation of Marine Ecosystems (BECoME 2025) will take place August 19–23, 2025, at City University of Hong Kong (City UHK). Originating in 2015, this conference has grown into a global forum uniting scientists, conservationists, policy-makers, and practitioners. Its growing influence directly affects scuba diving by shaping conservation policies which drive real change at dive sites globally.^{1, 2}

Why BECoME 2025 Matters to Scuba Divers

Diving is not just about exploring beautiful reefs and wrecks. Divers are often the very first to notice when reefs bleach, fish disappear, or pollution strikes. What happens at BECoME shapes diver experiences for years to come:1

• Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The conference tackles how to design, manage, and monitor MPAs—protected zones frequently visited by divers. These areas safeguard coral reefs, restore habitats, and offer divers healthier, more vibrant sites. BECoME advocates for MPAs that enhance both access and protection.²  If you are looking for a diver and eco-friendly hotel that helps guard reefs, restore habitats, and offer eco-divers’ destinations worth exploring, see our write-up on Explorean Cozumel.
• Coral Health and Restoration. Sessions focus on the latest science of coral bleaching and restoration, vital for divers who cherish these ecosystems. Learn more in our post on How Divers Are Restoring Coral Reefs. Results guide dive tourism operators and inform diver-led conservation campaigns.⁴
• Sustainable Dive Tourism. BECoME sets the standard for eco-friendly dive operations, with educational initiatives and policy advice for site managers and instructors. This means cleaner, safer dives—now and in the future.³
• Biodiversity Databases and Citizen Science. Scuba divers contribute critical data via dive logs, species sightings, and underwater photography. BECoME’s embrace of diver input means you can join the global effort to track marine changes and advocate for conservation.⁴
• Climate Change and Human Impacts. Divers witness firsthand the effects of warming seas, pollution, and overfishing. BECoME discussions help divers adapt their practices, advocate for policy, and support solutions in their communities.⁵
• Ecosystem Restoration and Training. With a hands-on focus, the conference offers workshops on coral gardening, seagrass planting, and restoration dives, building the skills every eco-minded diver needs.⁴

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Eco-Friendly Dive Essentials

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The History & Progress of BECoME 2025

• BECoME 2015: Launched with 280 participants from 26 countries—focusing on interdisciplinary ideas and collaborative conservation.
• BECoME 2022: Recognized by UNESCO as a core “Ocean Decade” event; expanded to 340 participants from 33 countries via a hybrid online (COVID-19) and in-person format.
• BECoME 2025: Scheduled for August. Its continued growth signals increasing influence and credibility in marine policy, directly benefiting dive operations and influencing local policies.

What BECoME Achieves for Divers

• Protect the Places We Dive. New MPAs, fisheries management rules, and restoration projects all stem from policy and science shared at BECoME.
• Empower Local Advocacy. Conference insights help divers spearhead coral garden projects, lobby for wreck preservation, and rally community support.
• Connect Directly with Science. Divers can learn, apply, and advance research techniques presented at BECoME—whether monitoring reef health, submitting observations, or joining training workshops.
• Be In the Know. Information gleaned from the conference will give divers/operators a head start in understanding and preparing for upcoming policies.

Citizen Science Tools

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What is On the BECoME 2025 Agenda?

Conference Objectives.

• Foster global knowledge exchange and research collaboration
• Identify knowledge gaps
• Train young marine professionals
• Provide expert advice for biodiversity conservation and fisheries management. If you’re preparing for similar experiences, check out our Buoyancy Control Tips for Divers — a foundation for eco-conscious diving.

Core Themes.

• Climate change impacts & mitigation
• Marine biodiversity (coral, seagrass, marine mammals)
• Ecosystem restoration & nature-based solutions
• Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
• Sustainable fisheries & mariculture
• Biodiversity databases & monitoring
• Managing anthropogenic threats

Scuba-Relevant Topics.

• Coral ecosystem health and monitoring
• Dive tourism and sustainability
• MPA effects on favorite dive sites
• Seagrass restoration and hands-on training dives
• Marine mammal conservation as seen by divers
• Best practices for operators in sensitive habitats
• How diver-led citizen science can influence marine biodiversity research

Restoration & Research Support Gear

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Policy Influence

BECoME’s recommendations have led to new regulations, improved safety and management for dive tourism, and enhanced protections at many top destinations. The conference’s outcomes impact dive operations, travel, business, and education worldwide.

More to follow as the conference unfolds.

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