CANBERRA, June 21 -- A recent study has found that emotions such as grief, sadness, and hope are motivating divers to take part in restoration efforts on the Great Barrier Reef, which is increasingly at risk due to climate change.

According to a statement released by the University of Adelaide on Friday, the study investigated how active participation in reef conservation diving can foster strong emotional and sensory bonds between people and marine ecosystems. It challenges the concept of human exceptionalism - the idea that humans are distinct from or superior to nature.

Based on interviews and field observations, the study highlighted that direct interaction with the underwater environment - such as touching coral and feeling water p...