As more people connect with the ocean through water sports, the impact of these activities on marine ecosystems is increasingly debated. Freediving and scuba diving are two of the most popular ways to explore underwater worlds, and while both offer unique experiences, they differ in their environmental footprint. So, which is better for the ocean? Let’s dive into the details, comparing the carbon footprints, ecological impact, and sustainability benefits of both.

Understanding the Basics: Freediving and Scuba Diving

Freediving is the art of diving without any breathing apparatus. A freediver holds their breath as they explore, diving deep on a single breath and returning to the surface when needed. It requires minimal equipment—typically just a mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit.

Scuba Diving, on the other hand, allows divers to stay underwater longer by using tanks filled with compressed air. This requires more gear, including tanks, regulators, buoyancy control devices (BCDs), and often a full wetsuit or drysuit depending on the water temperature.

Both offer incredible ways to experience marine life, but their environmental impact varies significantly.

Carbon Footprint Comparison

One of the biggest considerations in any eco-friendly debate is carbon emissions. Carbon emissions are often higher for scuba diving than freediving because of the need for additional equipment, which requires energy-intensive processes for manufacturing and maintenance.

• Freediving: With minimal gear, freediving has a lower carbon footprint. Since it only requires a mask, fins, and possibly a wetsuit, there’s less manufacturing involved. This eco-friendly approach makes freediving an attractive option for environmentally conscious divers.

• Scuba Diving: Scuba tanks need frequent refills with compressed air, which requires compressors that consume electricity or fuel. Additionally, all that extra equipment must be manufactured, creating a larger carbon footprint.

For those looking to minimize their environmental impact, freediving is undoubtedly the more carbon-friendly choice.

Impact on Marine Ecosystems

Both freediving and scuba diving can have environmental impacts on marine ecosystems, but the extent of the impact varies.

• Freediving: Because freedivers don’t wear bulky equipment, they can navigate tight spaces with minimal contact. Freediving courses in Bali emphasize buoyancy control, ensuring divers don’t touch delicate marine life or coral reefs. Additionally, freediving is a silent sport—without noisy equipment, there is less risk of disturbing underwater wildlife.

• Scuba Diving: Scuba divers, with tanks and other gear, may inadvertently touch or disturb coral reefs and marine animals. The equipment’s sound, particularly from the bubbles released, can disturb some marine species, affecting their natural behaviors. In highly frequented dive sites, these disturbances can lead to coral stress, which makes them vulnerable to bleaching and disease.

Chemicals in Sunscreens and Oils

The use of sunscreen is another environmental concern, especially in tropical regions like Bali where both freedivers and scuba divers flock to sunny beaches. Certain chemicals in sunscreen are harmful to coral reefs, contributing to coral bleaching. Many freediving and scuba diving operators in Bali now encourage reef-safe sunscreen.

However, due to the less intense equipment use and shorter dive times, freedivers generally use fewer oils and lotions that could negatively impact the environment. Many freediving courses teach eco-friendly practices, like using reef-safe sunscreen or covering up with UV-protective clothing instead of sunscreen.

The Debate on Bubbles and Marine Life Disturbance

A little-known fact about scuba diving is the effect of air bubbles on marine life. Fish and other creatures are sensitive to the sound of bubbles, which can startle them or cause them to retreat. Studies have shown that certain species, like some reef fish, are less likely to be found in areas where scuba divers are active. Freediving, which doesn’t produce bubbles, allows divers to observe marine life more closely and with less disturbance.

Sustainability of Freediving and Scuba Diving Equipment

Freedivers require minimal gear that lasts for years with proper care. Scuba equipment, however, needs regular maintenance and replacement. Dive tanks must be frequently checked and refilled, and gear needs specialized care, contributing to more waste and energy use over time. Bali freediving courses often emphasize the eco-friendliness of freediving, drawing attention to the simplicity and sustainability of this gear.

Is Freediving Really Better for the Ocean?

Freediving has a clear eco-friendly advantage due to its low carbon footprint, minimal impact on marine ecosystems, and quiet approach that allows for closer interaction with marine life. However, responsible scuba diving is also possible. Many Bali-based diving schools promote sustainable scuba practices, like avoiding direct contact with corals and teaching divers about ocean conservation.

While freediving in Bali might be the better choice for eco-conscious ocean lovers, both sports offer ways to explore underwater worlds responsibly. The key is awareness—whether you’re freediving or scuba diving, understanding the impact of your actions is the first step toward preserving these delicate ecosystems for future generations.

Ready to experience freediving or scuba diving responsibly? Join our Bali freedive course at Fusion Freedive and Spearfishing to learn more about eco-conscious diving practices and enjoy the beauty of Bali’s marine life up close.