Citizen Science Goes Underwater With Global Shark Census Launch

PADI has launched a global shark and ray census with Blancpain and James Cook University.

The program will collect diver-reported sightings to turn underwater encounters into conservation data.

It is paired with a Shark & Ray Conservation Specialty Course that teaches species identification and responsible reporting.

The effort aims to fill monitoring gaps as shark and ray populations face steep declines from overfishing, habitat loss, and wildlife trade.