Surfing, with its laid-back lifestyle and intimate connection to nature, may seem like one of the most eco-friendly sports out there. The image of surfers gliding gracefully across the ocean, at one with the waves, gives the impression of a harmonious relationship with the environment. However, like many activities, surfing is not without its environmental impacts. While it’s not inherently “bad” for the environment, there are several factors to consider when evaluating the sustainability of this beloved sport. Here are a few factors to consider in order to keep the sport of surfing as sustainable as possible.
1. Carbon Footprint
The environmental impact of surfing begins with transportation. Most surfers need to travel to coastal destinations, often driving long distances or even flying to reach their favorite surf spots. These journeys contribute to carbon emissions, which are a significant contributor to climate change. Surfing events, competitions, and surf tourism can exacerbate this problem.
How to reduce your carbon footprint as a surfer
To reduce their carbon footprint, surfers can consider carpooling or limiting the number of flights they take every year. Instead of visiting several surfing destinations, spend more time at one spot, reducing your transportation.
2. Surf Gear Production
Surfboards, made from materials like polyurethane foam and fiberglass, are not eco-friendly. The production process is energy-intensive, and the toxic chemicals used can harm the environment. There is an increasing movement towards more sustainable materials, such as recycled foam, bamboo, and epoxy resin.
How to reduce the environmental impact of your surf gear
Buying second hand surfboards is a great way to reduce the environmental impact of your surfing equipment. One could argue there are already more than enough surfboards in this world for everybody. Furthermore, beginners and intermediate surfers will barely see the difference between a brand new board and a second hand board in good condition. When, you get a ding on a surfboard, take good care of it by keeping it out of the water until it is repaired. This will prolong the life of your surfboard.
3. Erosion and Coastal Development
The very nature of surfing relies on coastal areas. Unfortunately, these areas are often at risk due to erosion caused by climate change and coastal development. Building seawalls and jetties can negatively impact the natural flow of sand and waves, disrupting local ecosystems. To accommodate the ever growing market of surfing tourists, many hotels and surf camps are being built right along the coastline which leads to severe negative impacts on ecosystems.
Actors in the surf tourism industry should stay aware of those impacts and develop in a sustainable way both economically and environmentally. So far, the economic side is sadly overweighing the environmental side.
4. Overcrowding and Pollution
As the sport of surfing grows, we find more and more surfers in spots that were untouched a few decades ago. More visitors mean more stress on the environment in places where the infrastructure is not always there to host such a mass. Therefore, we find more sewage, plastic wastes and other pollutants in our oceans. This pollution in the ocean can lead to waterborne illnesses and harm marine life in an irreversible way. Surfers should be aware of water quality conditions in their chosen surf spots and support organizations working to reduce ocean pollution. Using eco-friendly sunscreen that doesn’t harm coral reefs is another way surfers can reduce their environmental footprint.
5. Marine Life Disturbance
Surfers share the ocean with diverse marine life. Paddling out to surf can disturb local ecosystems and wildlife. Some surf breaks are near sensitive marine habitats, such as coral reefs and mangroves. Surfers can minimize their impact by respecting wildlife, not disturbing nesting sites, and staying informed about local regulations and guidelines.
In conclusion, surfing is not inherently bad for the environment, but it does have its environmental impacts. These impacts can be mitigated and even turned into opportunities for positive change. Surfing enthusiasts and the industry as a whole have started to embrace more sustainable practices, from board materials to eco-friendly surf gear. Additionally, surfers can use their love for the ocean to advocate for marine conservation, participate in beach cleanups, and support organizations dedicated to protecting coastal environments. Ultimately, with awareness and effort, surfers can help ensure that their beloved sport remains in harmony with the natural world.