Deep Ecology

Our philosophy is summarized with the words of the man who has done more to enlighten the people of the world about the priceless and irreplaceable resource we call the ocean.

"If human civilization is going to invade the waters of the earth, then let it be first of all to carry a message of respect - respect for all life."

Jacques-Yves Cousteau

We do not simply repeat the words of Captain Cousteau, we adhere to them in every way. The Deep Ecology Coalition is our initiated contract holding us accountable to the philosophy of "respect for all life." But Deep Ecology has many unique qualities that make it a truly one of a kind dive facility. One of the major goals set forth by Captain Ken Nichols, President is to compel other dive facilities to copy Deep Ecology's policies. His reason for this is simple. To him it is of utmost responsibility for dive operators to protect the marine environment from which they derive their incomes. "If the environment you operate in is safe, well protected and flourishing. The duty becomes then maintaining of that existence. If conversely the environment is under siege from pressures such as pollution, over fishing, inadequate conservation laws and enforcement, and overcrowding by divers the obligation then becomes to change that reality for the better." On the island of Oahu where Deep Ecology is based all of the above apply. The trend for dive operators has been towards large boats with often times 25 divers and more.

Volume has clearly been the focus and as a result quality of service has been greatly reduced and negative impact is amplified. Businesses continue to fail even though their boats are often times full. "I believe the most profitable businesses going into the new millennium are going to be those that have proven track records of ecological commitment." With an initial capital investment of $8000.00 in May 1996 Deep Ecology has experienced excellent growth in Hawaii's dive industry and now has undoubtedly the most impressive facility in physical appearance, educational achievements, quality service, unsurpassed diving and without question the State's undisputed leader in protecting and improving Oahu's marine environment through direct action. In the last two months alone, Deep Ecology's accomplishments would make any dive operation proud if accomplished over several years. In that time 3 ghost nets have been removed from Oahu reefs. A total length of 500+ feet recovered in depths up to 200 feet. On one shallow recovery a young boy and customer from Oklahoma was brought along to observe.

Several beach cleanups have been conducted and many thousands of pounds of ocean waste recovered. Again, many visitors and locals have taken part. Thus far Deep Ecology has rescued 37 endangered Green Sea Turtles. Three turtles was have been recovered dead, and most all of the turtles were victims of entanglement in fishing line and/or hooks. Sadly, 11 turtles required the amputation of their fins. Without question many marine lives have been saved. Approximately 60-70 local news stories about our efforts have aired on Hawaii's television news reaching 1.2 million viewers. Several local radio broadcasts and two national television profiles and several international programs have additionally reported on our operation. Also during this time massive progress has been gained with the goal of changing Hawaii's shameful lack of marine sanctuaries. Two senators, the mayor, and several different agencies have become involved and are directly aware of Ken Nichols' and Deep Ecology's efforts. On August 16th 1999 a front page story chronicling the events above was printed in Hawaii's largest newspaper, The Honolulu Advertiser. All in all, no operation has effected so much , so fast in the diving industry in this state and perhaps globally as Deep Ecology.

The proudest accomplishment which is now a very real possibility is the forming of the North Shore's first marine sanctuary which has only become a realistic possibility due to our compelling documentation of marine destruction. "I am eminently confident the North Shore will have its first marine sanctuary. My focus is simply getting it sooner, rather than later."

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