Every minute, a garbage truck’s worth of plastic is dumped into the ocean, which harms sea life and their homes. In the UAE, where there’s a long coastline and lots of marine life, pollution underwater is a big worry for both nature and the economy. Companies for Good is focused on helping the environment through corporate volunteering, creating opportunities for businesses to truly make a difference. This guide is here to help you learn about underwater cleanup efforts and how you can get involved with Companies for Good.

The Growing Threat to Marine Ecosystems

The rise in ocean trash brings about serious problems.

  • Global Impact: Every year, about 8 million tons of plastic waste end up in the ocean, which is a huge problem for marine life and the environment.
  • Regional Concerns: In the UAE and the Gulf area, pollution in the water is harming coral reefs, mangroves, and the various sea creatures that rely on these environments.
  • Long-Term Consequences: Persistent pollution harms ocean life and puts at risk the health and jobs of people who rely on the sea.

Why Underwater Cleanups Matter

Underwater cleanups offer immediate and long-term benefits:

  • Ecosystem Restoration: Removing debris helps restore natural habitats, allowing marine life to thrive.
  • Species Protection: Cleanups reduce the risk to endangered species by eliminating hazardous waste.
  • Economic Support: Healthier oceans help local fishing businesses and bring in tourists, which is important for the UAE’s economy.
  • Global Goals Alignment: These actions support the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, focusing on keeping ocean resources safe and used wisely.

The Unique Role of Corporate Volunteers

Businesses have a unique opportunity to lead environmental initiatives:

  • Getting Resource Together: Companies can provide the manpower and resources necessary for large-scale cleanups.
  • Employee Engagement: Involvement in environmental activities boosts morale and fosters a sense of purpose among employees.
  • Being Responsible: Showing a commitment to being eco-friendly can improve the company’s reputation and build trust with everyone involved.

How Your Company Can Participate

Joining our underwater cleanup efforts is straightforward:

  • Planning: We’re here to help you set up an event that fits your team’s size and preferences.
  • Roles Assignment: Both divers and non-divers can participate, with activities ranging from underwater collection to onshore support.
  • Training: We provide necessary training and briefings to ensure safety and effectiveness.
  • Equipment: All required gear is supplied, including diving equipment and cleanup tools.
     

Companies for Good’s Underwater Cleanup Initiatives

By 2025, the world’s oceans are projected to contain more plastic than fish—a stark reminder of the escalating environmental crisis. For organizations that want to make a tangible difference, the question is no longer “if” but “how.”

In collaboration with Companies for Good, AC Mahara Diving Center, and APCO Worldwide, PwC launched a large-scale underwater cleanup initiative off the coast of the UAE. The campaign was part of the broader “Join the Good Movement” initiative, aimed at mobilizing corporate teams toward sustainable impact.

Professional divers and PwC volunteers teamed up to remove plastic waste and marine debris from the seabed—restoring the ocean ecosystem while raising awareness about marine pollution.

Protecting our oceans is about more than the environment—it’s about our future. This initiative shows how companies like PwC can go beyond talk and take real action. With support from Companies for Good, PwC’s team got directly involved in creating positive change. Companies for Good makes it easy for businesses to do good in meaningful ways—helping teams connect with causes that matter and make a real impact on the world around them.

Creating Lasting Impact

Our goal extends beyond individual cleanups: 

  • Long-Term Programs: We help businesses set up long-term environmental activities.
  • Continuous Engagement: Opportunities for regular participation keep the energy going.
  • Impact Measurement: We provide reports detailing the environmental benefits of your involvement.

Underwater cleanups are a powerful way for companies to contribute to environmental conservation. By participating, your organisation can make a significant difference in preserving marine ecosystems.
Ready to make an impact? Contact Companies for Good to learn more about upcoming underwater cleanup opportunities and how your team can get involved.

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