Catch the Wave of Sustainability: How Surfers Can Make a Difference

As surfers, we know that catching the perfect wave is not just about riding the wave itself, but also about respecting the ocean and its inhabitants. One of the most significant environmental impacts of surfing is sunscreen use. With millions of surfers hitting the beaches every year, it's easy to forget about the harm that sunscreen can cause to marine life.

One example of this issue is during a recent surf session at Pipeline in Hawaii. A group of surfers were spending hours soaking up the sun, laughing and having a great time. However, as they began to reapply their sunscreen, they noticed that the coral reef surrounding the beach was becoming increasingly covered in gray, rough patches.

At first, it seemed like just another day on the beach, but as the days went by, the damage became more apparent. The coral reef, which was once a vibrant and thriving ecosystem, began to decline rapidly due to the excessive amount of sunscreen being applied to it. This not only harmed the marine life that called the reef home, but also reduced its ability to provide habitat for countless species of fish, crustaceans, and other creatures.

It's heartbreaking to see our actions have such a devastating impact on the ocean we love. That's why it's essential to adopt sustainable surfing practices that minimize harm to the environment while still enjoying the thrill of the ride.

Responsible Sunscreen Use: A Key to Sustainable Surfing

So, what can surfers do to reduce their impact on the ocean? Here are some tips for responsible sunscreen use:

• Choose reef-safe sunscreens: Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which don't harm coral reefs. These natural ingredients work by creating a physical barrier that prevents UV radiation from penetrating the skin.
• Apply sunscreen correctly: Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before heading out into the water and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin, but don't overdo it – too much can cause irritation and reduce effectiveness.
• Avoid using chemical sunscreens in Hawaii: Chemical sunscreens are notorious for their harm to coral reefs. Instead, opt for reef-safe options that will keep you safe while still protecting the ocean.

Sunscreen Application Techniques: Tips and Tricks

So, how do surfers apply sunscreen effectively? Here are some tips:

• Use a wide-tooth comb or applicator brush: This helps distribute the sunscreen evenly and prevents it from getting stuck in small crevices.
• Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin: Don't forget hard-to-reach areas like your ears, nose, and heels.
• Reapply regularly: Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

By making these simple changes, surfers can enjoy the thrill of the ride while also preserving the health of our oceans. So next time you're out in the lineup, remember to take care of your skin – and the ocean – too. Responsible Sunscreen Use: A Key to Sustainable Surfing

As surfers, we know that catching the perfect wave is not just about riding the wave itself, but also about respecting the ocean and its inhabitants. One of the most significant environmental impacts of surfing is sunscreen use. With millions of surfers hitting the beaches every year, it's easy to forget about the harm that sunscreen can cause to marine life.

One example of this issue is during a recent surf session at Pipeline in Hawaii. A group of surfers were spending hours soaking up the sun, laughing and having a great time. However, as they began to reapply their sunscreen, they noticed that the coral reef surrounding the beach was becoming increasingly covered in gray, rough patches.

At first, it seemed like just another day on the beach, but as the days went by, the damage became more apparent. The coral reef, which was once a vibrant and thriving ecosystem, began to decline rapidly due to the excessive amount of sunscreen being applied to it. This not only harmed the marine life that called the reef home, but also reduced its ability to provide habitat for countless species of fish, crustaceans, and other creatures.

It's heartbreaking to see our actions have such a devastating impact on the ocean we love. That's why it's essential to adopt sustainable surfing practices that minimize harm to the environment while still enjoying the thrill of the ride.

Responsible Sunscreen Use: A Key to Sustainable Surfing

So, what can surfers do to reduce their impact on the ocean? Here are some tips for responsible sunscreen use:

• Choose reef-safe sunscreens: Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which don't harm coral reefs. These natural ingredients work by creating a physical barrier that prevents UV radiation from penetrating the skin.
• Apply sunscreen correctly: Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before heading out into the water and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin, but don't overdo it – too much can cause irritation and reduce effectiveness.
• Avoid using chemical sunscreens in Hawaii: Chemical sunscreens are notorious for their harm to coral reefs. Instead, opt for reef-safe options that will keep you safe while still protecting the ocean.

Sunscreen Application Techniques: Tips and Tricks

So, how do surfers apply sunscreen effectively? Here are some tips:

• Use a wide-tooth comb or applicator brush: This helps distribute the sunscreen evenly and prevents it from getting stuck in small crevices.
• Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin: Don't forget hard-to-reach areas like your ears, nose, and heels.
• Reapply regularly: Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

By making these simple changes, surfers can enjoy the thrill of the ride while also preserving the health of our oceans. So next time you're out in the lineup, remember to take care of your skin – and the ocean – too..

By choosing reef-safe, chemical-free, and zinc oxide/titanium dioxide sunscreens, surfers can enjoy the ocean while also protecting its inhabitants. So next time you're out in the lineup, remember to take care of your skin – and the ocean – too..

Join our community on Discord: