The Shifting Tides: How Climate Change is Affecting Surfable Waves and Coastal Erosion

As surfers around the world continue to push the limits of what's possible on their boards, a growing concern is emerging: the impact of climate change on surfing. The changing weather patterns and rising sea levels are affecting not only the quality and consistency of waves but also the very existence of some coastal communities that rely on them for livelihoods.

Let's take the coastal town of Tauranga, New Zealand as an example. For decades, Tauranga has been a popular spot for surfers seeking big waves and consistent swells. The region's reputation for producing world-class surfing has attracted visitors from around the globe. However, with the increasing frequency and severity of hurricanes and typhoons in the Pacific, these coastal towns are facing an unprecedented threat.

The Tides Are Changing

In recent years, the number of major tropical cyclones that affect New Zealand has increased significantly. In 2020 alone, four hurricanes made landfall in the country, causing widespread damage and displacement. For surfers like Ryan Thompson, a local pro surfer with over 10,000 hours logged on his board, this is more than just an inconvenience – it's a threat to his livelihood.

"I've been surfing Tauranga for over 20 years," Thompson says. "I remember when the waves were bigger and the swells were more consistent. Now, with all these storms making landfall, the quality of the surf has really dropped off. It's like the ocean is trying to kill us."

The Rise of Storm Surge

One of the most significant impacts of climate change on Tauranga's surfing is the rise of storm surge. As hurricanes and typhoons intensify, they release massive amounts of energy that can cause devastating coastal flooding. In 2018, a Category 3 hurricane made landfall in New Zealand, bringing with it storm surges that inundated several coastal towns.

For surfers like Thompson, the increased frequency and severity of storms are forcing them to adapt their surfing strategy. "We're having to be more careful about which breaks we choose," he says. "Some days, you'll find yourself on a break where there's no chance of getting out – it's just too rough."

The Impact on Coastal Erosion

Climate change is also causing significant changes in the shape and size of coastal beaches. As sea levels rise due to melting glaciers and ice sheets, many beaches are being eroded by waves and storm surges.

In Tauranga, this has resulted in a number of beach closures and damage to surf spots that were previously accessible. "It's like the ocean is wearing down our coastline," says local resident and conservationist, Sarah Jenkins. "We're seeing more frequent erosion events, which are having a devastating impact on the environment and the communities that rely on it."

Conservation Efforts

While the challenges facing Tauranga are significant, there are still opportunities for conservation and adaptation in the face of climate change.

The New Zealand government has set a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050. This could have major implications for coastal communities that rely on surf spots for livelihoods.

For local surfers like Thompson, the key is to adapt their surfing strategy while also promoting sustainable practices and reducing their environmental impact. "We need to be more mindful of our actions and make sure we're not contributing to the problem," he says. "But at the same time, we need to keep pushing ourselves to improve our skills and stay ahead of the curve."

Conclusion

The future of surfing in Tauranga is uncertain, but one thing is clear: climate change is having a profound impact on coastal communities that rely on surf spots for livelihoods. As surfers, conservationists, and policymakers work together to address these challenges, there are still opportunities for growth, innovation, and adaptation.

While the shifting tides may be challenging, they also present a unique opportunity for us to rethink our approach to surfing and the environment. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future for surfers, coastal communities, and the ocean itself. Here is the information in a table view for comparison:

Climate Change Impacts on Surfing

Tauranga, New Zealand as an Example

Thompson's Perspective

Jenkins' Perspective

Thompson's Conservation Strategy

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