As surfers, we are constantly surrounded by marine and coastal environments. It is extremely ironic that a sport and industry that relies on a healthy ocean can be very cruel to it. The surfing industry creates so many damaging and wasteful products that are quickly destroying the environment. If we all make small changes to our lifestyles, together we can make a huge difference. Your help is both needed and appreciated. Continue reading to learn about simple changes you can easily make.
Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
Sunscreen is made to protect humans from ultraviolet rays, but some ingredients found in sunscreen danger our coral reefs and the life found within them. Coral reefs are more than a beautiful tourist attraction; they support an incomparable underwater ecosystem. They protect coastlines from storms and erosion, provide jobs for local communities, offer opportunities for recreation, and so much more.
In a 2013 study, NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science researchers and their partners concluded that several ingredients found in sunscreens were highly toxic to marine life. The harmful ingredients are released off swimmers and seep into the nearby corals. In fact, research shows that 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen enter reef areas each year, damaging and killing marine life.
There are several companies selling eco-friendly sunscreen products. These sunscreens are not only better for the ocean, but they are also safer for your skin as well! Why harm both when there are options to benefit both? It makes no sense. Below are two of my personal favorite reef-friendly sunscreens, but there are so many other options.
Sun & Earth Natural Zinc
Sun & Earth Natural Zinc is made from sunshine. That's right, they use solar power to make their cream! Learn more about all of the amazing things this company is doing on its website (sunearthzinc.com). Photo from @sun.and.earth.zinc on Instagram
Sun Bum
Sun Bum cares about the planet, animals, and our families. So, they are continuously looking for ways to make their products without ingredients that could harm any of them. Learn more about this inspiring company on their website (sunbum.com).
Choose Eco-Friendly Wax
Surfboard wax is another surf essential that can negatively impact the environment because of its chemical makeup. Traditional surf wax is considered toxic because it is made with petrochemicals. Petrochemicals are not biodegradable, and also very harmful to sea creatures that mistakenly digest them. 95 percent of surfing waxes on the global market contain chemicals such as benzene and toluene. The United States Environmental Protection Agency considers these chemicals to be human carcinogens, which is very concerning. It is estimated that there are well over 25 million surfers in the world today. Think about how many bars of wax you go through and multiply that number by 25 million. You will quickly realize the negative impact we surfers are making at such a fast pace. Surfers are harming their bodies and the beloved ocean daily and not even realizing it. It needs to stop now.
The good news is there are several companies providing eco-friendly alternatives. You should have no problem finding an eco-friendly option that's perfect for you; there are several options out there. Do your research and check the ingredients before purchasing. One company that I highly recommend is Wave Maiden. Their plant-powered surf wax is crafted clean for both you and our ocean. Learn more about their company through their Instagram, @wave.maiden. The ocean and your body will be so thankful for your efforts.
Photo from @wave.maiden on Instagram
There are several other ways you can help keep our coastal environment clean. I’ll be writing more about this topic in the near future. Follow @alysse.dodge on Instagram for updates. There are endless ways to help the environment, so make sure you are trying your best to do so!
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