PADI and Blancpain Expand Partnership to Launch Critical Global Shark and Ray Census

PADI and Blancpain have partnered to create the Vulnerable Marine Species Program, with the goal of saving 30% of the ocean by 2030. Blancpain’s support will fund the Global Shark & Ray Census, a new citizen science initiative that aims to protect vulnerable marine species from extinction.

The collaboration between PADI and Blancpain began over two decades ago with a whale shark identification project. Last year, both organizations announced an expanded commitment to increase the number of marine protected areas (MPAs) worldwide. Blancpain’s support of PADI’s Blueprint for Ocean Action has accelerated the creation of PADI’s MPA Program and its flagship citizen science program, Adopt the Blue™. This allows recreational divers to directly engage in marine conservation activities while exploring the ocean.

Dr. Drew Richardson, CEO of PADI Worldwide and Chairman of PADI AWARE Foundation, emphasizes that working together with Blancpain will be a force multiplier in achieving shared ocean conservation goals. With Blancpain’s generous support, PADI and the PADI AWARE Foundation will develop the largest underwater citizen science program to protect sharks and rays from extinction. Additionally, the PADI AWARE Foundation’s Mission Hub Community Grant Program will provide support for MPA and Vulnerable Marine Species Grantees globally and locally, promoting critical conservation initiatives.

The PADI AWARE Foundation has a successful track record of conservation measures for various shark and ray species. Their efforts have helped secure protection measures for over 105 species of sharks and rays through specialist advice and research. The Global Shark and Ray Census enables divers to collect high-quality data on vulnerable shark species and contribute to national and global protection measures.

To support the PADI AWARE Foundation and Blancpain in their efforts for positive ocean change, donations can be made to the PADI AWARE Shark Appeal. Blancpain has agreed to match donations 1:1, which will aid in the development of the Vulnerable Species Program.

Blancpain, founded in 1735, is the world’s oldest watch brand. The company’s Ocean Commitment program reflects its historical connection to the ocean, as it launched the world’s first modern diving watch, the Fifty Fathoms, in 1953. Blancpain’s support for ocean conservation initiatives and its innovation in watchmaking continue to push the boundaries of the industry.
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