Protecting Our Coasts, One Wave at a Time: The Unseen Environmental Impact of Surfing

As surfers, we know that riding the waves is not only exhilarating but also essential to our sport. However, the simple act of catching a wave can have far-reaching consequences for the environment. In this blog post, we'll explore the environmental impact of surfing and highlight eco-friendly alternatives to traditional sunscreen.

The Hidden Cost of Surfing

Let's consider an example scenario: a group of surfers head out to their favorite break on a sunny morning. As they paddle out to catch the first wave, they notice that the water is crystal clear, with no signs of pollution or debris. The beach is pristine, and the surrounding ecosystem seems untouched.

However, as we all know, surfing generates a significant amount of waste. Car tires, rubber from wetsuits, and other ocean-friendly gear end up in the sea, harming marine life and contaminating our coastline. It's estimated that over 70% of surfers' trash ends up on the beach, with plastic bags, straws, and water bottles being some of the most common items.

The Environmental Impact of Traditional Sunscreen

Now, let's talk about sunscreen. Most commercial sunscreens contain chemical active ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone, which have been linked to coral bleaching, sea turtle harm, and even DNA damage in humans. In fact, a study found that over 70% of the sunscreen chemicals used in the United States are not approved for use on human skin.

Furthermore, traditional sunscreens often contain microplastics, which can enter our ocean through microbeads or fine particles. These tiny plastic fragments can harm marine life, including fish, dolphins, and whales, as well as contaminate the food chain.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Sunscreen

So, what can we do instead? Here are some eco-friendly alternatives to traditional sunscreen:

1. Physical Sunblocks: Instead of chemical active ingredients, try using physical sunblocks like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals create a physical barrier on the skin's surface, providing broad-spectrum protection without harming the environment.
2. Honey-Based Sunscreens: Honey has natural antibacterial and moisturizing properties that make it an excellent alternative to traditional sunscreen. Look for honey-based products containing ingredients like beeswax or carnauba wax.
3. Coconut Oil and Sheabutter: Mix coconut oil and sheabutter with other oils like jojoba oil or argan oil to create a natural, non-toxic sunscreen.
4. Sea Salt Soap and Shampoo: Use sea salt soap and shampoo as an alternative to traditional surfers' soap. These gentle cleansers are free from harsh chemicals and can be just as effective for cleaning your skin.

Responsible Sunscreen Disposal

Finally, it's essential to dispose of sunscreen responsibly. Here are a few tips:

1. Reuse Containers: Use empty sunscreen containers or purchase refillable bottles.
2. Recycle: Check with your local government to see if they offer sunscreen recycling programs.
3. Proper Dispose: If you can't recycle, properly dispose of sunscreen by wrapping it in plastic bags and placing it in the trash.

Conclusion

As surfers, we know that our actions have consequences for the environment. By making conscious choices about sunscreen disposal and opting for eco-friendly alternatives, we can reduce our impact on the ocean and preserve our coasts for future generations. So next time you're catching a wave, remember to protect our planet, one surf at a time. Here is the text reformatted into a table for comparison:

Environmental Impact of Surfing

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Responsible Sunscreen Disposal

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