Learn to Surf Sustainably
Learn to Surf Sustainably
To a surfer, waves are not just beautiful, they are essential. Beaches are an environment not just for enjoyment, but community, rejuvenation and a source of stoke. To the world, the water is a magical place and yet for a surfer it can be their world. It is no wonder then that the ocean holds meaning in a special way for a surfer. Part of the surfing community is learning to live a genuine life marked by love and respect towards yourself, the earth, and others. When becoming interested in surfing, whether as a bucket list item or a lifestyle, it is important to be aware of simple ways to enter into the environmentally conscious side of riding the waves. Here are a few easy tips…
-Sunscreen-
This is an easy way to care for the environment that has increasingly spread in awareness. Although most people are aware that some sunscreens can be harmful for coral and the environment, some people still struggle with understanding what exactly they need to avoid bringing to the ocean. The biggest aspect to be aware of when choosing your sunscreen is to look for zinc as an active ingredient instead of Oxybenzone, or BP-3. A 2016 study, showed strong evidence that this ingredient can bleach coral or even damage the existing DNA for future generations of coral. A quick look at the ingredients as you prepare for surf lessons or surf camp will make a big impact on the ocean. Look for sunscreens that are labeled “reef safe” or “ocean safe”.
-Reusable Waterbottles-
Reusable, a big buzzword and simple way to decrease your footprint on the world. We all need water, especially during a week of surf camp jumping in and out of the ocean. Make sure to bring water to stay hydrated, but think about bringing a non-glass reusable water bottle. There are water fountains available at a majority of public beaches including La Jolla Shores. Fill it up on your way to a surf activity and stay hydrated with a clear conscience.
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-Carpool/Ride share/Public Transportation-
Parking is a daily struggle living in San Diego county. Everyone knows it and everyone wants to avoid it. What better way to solve two problems than to start carpooling with friends! At Surf Clubs or Surf Camps meet other families and start a line of communication. If you are doing a group lesson, put on your favorite surf jams and start the stoke on the way to the beach. Surf with friends, save time parking, and start building your own surf community! You could also explore ride share services or public transport as well.
-Clean up the Beach-
Whether you participate in an organized beach clean up or just pick up some trash in the water or on the beach on your way in from a surf, it all helps. (Tip: sometimes if we see trash floating in the water, like bags or popped baloons, then we will ball it up and put in our wetsuit sleeve until we can dispose of it properly back on land).
The ocean is our dojo. It is a place to train and play, to learn life lessons as well as create deep relationships with the people around us. When we take time to be aware of how we impact the environment, that awareness grows to touch more than just the ocean and inspires us to give back in places we can reach. Maybe for you, it will not be in your daily trip to the ocean, but it could look like starting a carpool to school in the mornings. It could look like asking about sustainable options for consumer products in your hometown. It could look like using your plastic water bottle a few more times before recycling it at the office. If it is your first time jumping in the water for a surf lesson, welcome to La Jolla Shores, and join us in learning how to better share aloha to our environment.
Inest in your loocal beach, join or organize a cleanup