Conservation or Degradation? Assessing The Behavior of Underwater Photographers In Italian Marine Protected Areas

Abstract

Underwater photography is increasing in popularity. It can have positive effects such as conservation awareness and citizen science. Often, however, photographers neglect good environmental practices and engage in potentially damaging behaviors to the marine environment. The management of underwater photography is particularly relevant in marine protected areas (MPAs), where uses of the marine environment need to be carefully balanced. This study aimed to assess and compare underwater photographers' and nonphotographers' knowledge of codes of conduct in MPAs, as well as self-reported and observed compliance with these codes of conduct, and perceptions of the health of the marine environment including dive sites. Through direct observations and questionnaires, 84 divers were studied in three Italian MPAs in the summer of 2021. The difference between underwater photographers and nonphotographers was stark, with the former being more likely to violate MPA rules compared to the latter. There was no difference in knowledge of the effects of their behavior on the marine environment between underwater photographers and nonphotographers. Our results can help provide management considerations to reduce the impacts of underwater photography. Awareness campaigns, predive briefings and the promotion of low-impact underwater photography courses can help to limit unsustainable underwater behaviors among underwater photographers. Effective regulation of underwater photography can increase the carrying capacity of dive sites and have positive environmental and economic effects on MPAs and diving destinations.