Overview
Surfing is more than simply a sport; it’s a passion for the sea. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the very waterways we value require our protection as surges build and waves beckon. The effects of surfing on the environment are substantial, ranging from reef damage to plastic waste.
The good news? You may be a good steward of the sea and hunt barrels. Here’s how to ride waves with less of an impact, support environmentally conscious companies, and surf responsibly.
The Significance of Sustainability in Surfing
Although the ocean serves as our playground, its ecosystem is delicate. Clean water, robust reefs, and abundant marine life—all of which are under jeopardy—are essential to surfers.
We can guarantee that future generations experience the same joy we do by embracing eco-friendly practices.
Sustainable Methods for Conscious Surfers
Avoiding plastic straws is only one aspect of surfing sustainably; it’s a way of thinking that permeates all aspect of your surfing experience. Here’s how to truly leave an impression:
1. Ditch the Plastic (For Good)
Reusable Everything Replace single-use goods with long-lasting substitutes:
- Water bottles: silicone ones that can be folded up or made of stainless steel.
- Food Storage: Reusable silicone snack pouches or beeswax wraps.
- Surf Gear: Use bamboo fiber towels and biodegradable surf wax, such as Matuna’s Eco-Wax.
- Avoid Microplastics: Microfibers are released by synthetic wetsuits. To catch particles before they enter the ocean, rinse your equipment using a Guppy Friend Wash Bag.
2. Choose Sustainable Gear
Sustainable Boards:
- Recycled Materials: Bio-resins and recycled foam are used by companies such as Notox.
- Organic Shapes: Wooden alaia or paipo boards that are hand-shaped have a smaller environmental impact.
Conscientious Wetsuits:
- Recycled Neoprene: Rather than using petroleum-based neoprene, Patagonia uses natural rubber in their Yulex wetsuits.
- Repair, Don’t Replace: Use Aquaseal to fix leaks rather than throwing away old suits.
- Clothing: Encourage companies who employ recycled polyester and organic cotton, like as Kelly Slater’s Outerknown.
3. Respect Marine Life (Beyond the Obvious)
Safe for Reefs Sunscreen: Even labels that say “reef-safe” can be deceptive. Use only non-nano zinc oxide compositions (Raw Elements or Stream2Sea).
Etiquette for Wildlife:
- Maintain Your Distance: Steer clear of handling or feeding aquatic life, including that inquisitive sea turtle.
- Anchor Sensibly: Use mooring buoys while boating to breaks to avoid damaging the reef.
- Don’t Leave Any Traces: Remove all rubbish, including “biodegradable” things that take years to decompose and fruit peels.
4. Take a Steward’s Approach3)
Carbon Offsets: To offset aircraft emissions, use websites such as Sustainable Travel International.
Slow Surfing:
- Train Over Plane: Use buses or trains for local travel (such as Eurosurfing by rail).
- Carpool: Use applications such as BlaBlaCar to share rides with other surfers.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Solar-Powered Lodges: Reserve surf camps that rely solely on solar power.
- Locally Owned: Encourage family-owned lodging establishments rather than global franchises.
5. Support Sustainable Surf Brands
- Ethical Swag: Purchase from businesses that support NGOs that work to protect the ocean:
- 4ocean: They remove one pound of trash from the ocean for each bracelet that is sold.
- Sustainable Surf: New boards are made from recycled foam through their Waste to Waves initiative.
- Secondhand Gear: Check out Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for used boards and wetsuits.
6. Give Back to the Ocean
- Participate in Cleanups: Ask to attend the weekly beach cleanups that are organized by many surf schools!
- Surfrider Foundation, a citizen science organization Take part in surveys on plastic pollution or water testing.
- Coral Restoration: While surfing, volunteer with groups such as Reef Check.
7. Spread the Stoke
- Educate Others: Share sustainable tips with your surf crew or on social media.
- Support Green Events: Attend eco-focused surf contests like The Corona Bali Protected, which bans single-use plastics.
Sustainable Surf Camps Leading the Way
These camps prove you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for conservation:
1. Beach Break Surf Camp, Playa Venao, Panama
Why They’re Green:
- Zero-Waste Goals: Compostable meal packaging and strict recycling programs.
- Community Focus: Partner with local NGOs for beach cleanups and mangrove restoration.
Ideal For: Surfers who like to give back while enjoying Panama’s reliable beach breakers.
Bonus: Our location in Playa Venaois featured in our Ultimate Guide to the Best Surf Spots, a treasure trove of eco-friendly destinations.
2. Safari Surf School, Nosara, Costa Rica
Why They’re Green:
- Plastic-Free: No single-use plastics are allowed on the property.
- Reforestation Initiatives: They plant a tree for each visitor.
3. Rapture Surfcamps, Bali
Why They’re Green:
- Ocean Conservation: Fund coral reef restoration and turtle hatcheries.
- Eco-Education: Workshops on reducing your surf footprint.
How to Choose a Sustainable Surf Camp
Look for Certifications: Green Globe, EarthCheck, or local eco-labels.
Ask About Energy: Solar/wind-powered? Check.
Community Ties: Do they hire locally and support nearby conservation efforts?
Final Thoughts
Surfing and sustainability aren’t mutually exclusive—they’re a lifestyle. By choosing eco-friendly gear, supporting green surf camps, and respecting marine ecosystems, you can protect the oceans that give us so much joy.
Ready to plan your next trip? Dive into our Ultimate Guide to the Best Surf Spots, where we spotlight destinations that blend epic waves with environmental responsibility.
Catch you in the lineup—responsibly.
