How Can Surfers Get Involved in Grass-Roots Environmentalism?
Gone are the days when being informed about the environment pigeonholed you into the category of “tree hugger” or “hippie”.
Access to information and awareness about environmental issues has increased significantly in recent years. We’re now more informed than ever about both the challenges and potential solutions for environmental problems… which brings us to our next point.
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a surfer.
That means you’re uniquely positioned to be a powerful advocate for the preservation of our oceans, coastlines and broader environment.
Why are surfers particularly well set to make a positive impact on environmentalism? What is grass-roots environmentalism? How can you get involved in bettering the ecosystems around us?
We’ve done a deep dive into these questions. The following article shows how you can make a big difference with small actions.
What is “grass-roots environmentalism”?
Grass-roots environmentalism refers to a movement that aims to address environmental issues from the bottom-up, starting at the local level.
It’s driven by individuals and communities who take action to protect and improve their immediate surroundings.
Unlike traditional top-down approaches, grass-roots environmentalism empowers people to directly participate in making change happen.
This can include activities such as organising beach clean-ups, advocating for sustainable development projects or creating awareness campaigns within communities.
We’re big fans of putting the power in the hands of people. It’s an approach that’s proven to be effective time and time again, and one that allows us to directly contribute to causes dear to Rise Up’s heart.
Why do surfers have a responsibility to protect the environment?
Besides the obvious physical and mental benefits of becoming a surfer, there’s also the immersion in the natural world.
Learning about how certain waves work. Discovering the influence that swell direction, tides and wind have on the ocean. Decoding the various patterns and behaviors of sea creatures.
As a surfer you’re constantly interacting with and being surrounded by the natural environment.
Unfortunately, our relationship with Mother Nature and the ocean is often more take than give.
It might sound cliche or even trite, but surfers truly have a unique connection and appreciation for the ocean.
Sure, wave pools have allowed us to experience the thrill of surfing in a controlled environment, but nothing compares to paddling out into the open sea and feeling the power of the ocean beneath you.
It almost goes without saying then that without waves we don’t have surfing.
Shouldn’t we reciprocate and protect the very thing that brings us so much joy?
9 ways you can make a difference (right now)
Let’s be clear about one thing: we face an uphill battle when it comes to protecting our environment.
We’re the little guy, so to speak, but you should never underestimate the power of small actions. Small actions might not dramatically change the big picture, but they inspire change in others. And the more people who are inspired to take action, the bigger our impact becomes.
It’s a snowball effect and one that’s worked in the past – think of movements like the ban on plastic straws, single-use plastic bags and even the halting of offshore oil drilling projects.
Here are 9 ways you can get involved in grass-roots environmentalism and make a difference today.
1. Educate yourself on environmental issues facing surf locations
It seems that there’s a surf break or beach under threat somewhere in the world once a day.
From Bali to the southern coastline of Australia, the east coast of the United States and beyond, surf breaks and coastlines are under threat from pollution, oil drilling projects and overdevelopment.
Now, we obviously understand there’s a certain amount of disconnect if you live hundreds of miles inland. But if you travel to surf and you come into contact with these places, or you simply care about the ocean and coastlines, it’s important to keep yourself informed.
The more you know, the more you can share with others and inspire them to take action.
2. Take part in OR arrange a beach cleanup
If you do live near the coast or regularly visit to surf – get involved with beach cleanups.
These initiatives are usually run by local councils, schools or environment groups and often take place on weekends. Simply post in facebook groups, call local environmental organisations or even make a move yourself and invite people in the area to join you.
Organising a beach cleanup is super easy. All you need is a few garbage bags and gloves. It’s satisfying to do something positive for the environment and meet likeminded people in your community.
3. Donate to an environmental organisation
Surfers For Climate, Ocean Conservancy, Surfrider Foundation, Sea Shepherd.
There are so many environmental organisations dedicated to protecting our oceans and coastlines.
If you have some spare cash, consider donating to one of these organisations or another that aligns with your values and beliefs. The organisations listed above are incredibly transparent about where your money goes and how it’s used to make a difference.
Better yet, they also offer membership options with monthly prize draws and other benefits, allowing you to contribute on a more ongoing basis and maybe even score a free surf trip or other awesome gifts!
4. Choose surf experience providers who give back to the environment
We’re massive believers in supporting businesses that give back to the environment.
Here at Rise Up, we not only source our food locally and use eco-friendly products, but we also support local community initiatives and environmental organisations.
Of course, we’re not the only surf experience provider to do this, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind when planning your next surf trip.
Ask yourself before booking, does this surf experience provider give back to the environment? If not, consider supporting one that does.
5. Use sustainably made surf products and gear
Cork surfboards, yulex wetsuits and eco-friendly surf wax or reef-safe zinc.
There’s a massive market for sustainably made surf products and gear, so there’s really no excuse not to make the switch.
These products are often made with eco-friendly materials and methods, reducing their impact on the environment. Plus, they usually work just as well as their non-sustainable counterparts, if not better!
The perceived drawback here is that these products can often come with a higher price tag.
However, when you learn how they’re made, where your extra money goes and how long they last, you can see that the extra money is worth it in the long run.
6. Support businesses that promote sustainable practices
Did you know there are travel agents and airlines who offset their carbon emissions, hotels and tour operators dedicated to sustainability?
While it can be difficult to separate “greenwashing” from genuine sustainable practices, there are definitely businesses out there doing their part to reduce their impact on the environment.
Do some digging before booking your next surf trip and support businesses that align with your values.
7. Volunteer with organisations focused on protecting the environment
There are so many epic opportunities to volunteer with environmental organisations, both locally and globally.
From planting trees and cleaning up beaches to conducting research and assisting with conservation efforts, there’s a role for everyone no matter your skills or experience. Bring a friend or con your family members into coming with you and make it a fun experience while giving back to the environment.
Again, only taking from Mother Nature but giving nothing back isn’t the right mindset – volunteering is an active, interesting and rewarding way to give back and learn more about environmental issues too.
8. Follow social media accounts that raise awareness on environmental issues
Despite the fact that social media can sometimes be a negative space, it’s also a powerful tool for spreading awareness and inspiring action.
Since most of us use it daily, why not swap the surf and cat video accounts for profiles that focus on environmental issues and solutions?
Some of our favorites include Plastic Free, 4Ocean and Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii. These accounts share informative posts, tips for reducing your impact on the environment and ways to get involved in environmental initiatives.
There are also influential individuals, such as Shark Girl Madison, Miguel Blanco and Dave Rastovich, who dedicate their social media platforms to raising awareness on specific environmental issues.
Follow and support these accounts to stay informed and inspired.
9. Remember that small actions can make a big difference
We’re finishing up where we started off!
Guys, we know the task of saving the environment can seem daunting, but small actions really do make a big difference.
Pick up pieces of trash when you see them on the beach. Discard of your waste properly. Support sustainable businesses. Educate yourself and share your knowledge with others.
You needn’t become a militant eco-warrior and tie yourself to any bulldozers, but changing your daily habits and supporting others who are working towards a better environment for us all is definitely something we can all do.
Wrapping up
Posts like this can often feel all bluster and no substance, but we hope these tips help you take some positive steps towards protecting our oceans and coastlines.
At the very least we hope we’ve made you think about the impact that we as surfers have on the environment, and how we can use our love for surfing to make a positive difference.
Get in touch to learn more about Rise Up’s eco and social initiatives or book your next clear-conscience surf adventure with us today.
