Posted by Jeb Brinkley | 12.14.2023 | Kid Summer Camps, Teen Camps

The Connection Between Surfing and Conservation

Surfing and ocean conservation share a profound connection, as those who are passionate about riding the waves often develop a deep appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the marine environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the intersection of surfing and ocean conservation, highlighting the importance of protecting our oceans and offering practical ways for surfers to become advocates for change.

One of the largest problems impacting ocean conservation is marine debris pollution. Marine debris can be classified as any man-made material that enters the ocean environment. This can range from discarded and abandoned watercraft to microscopic plastics. Most of the debris that we encounter here comes from land-based sources – discarded waste then makes its way into the ocean, and washes up on beaches.

So, how can we make a difference?

First, reduce the amount of single-use plastics you consume. Skip the straw when getting a coffee, bring a reusable bag instead of using a plastic bag. Use a reusable water bottle instead of plastic bottles. While this doesn’t seem like a lot, it can make a huge difference in the long run.

Additionally, participate in local cleanups! Beaches are not isolated entities; they are part of interconnected ecosystems that include oceans, wetlands, and coastal areas. Pollution on the beach can leach into nearby ecosystems, causing widespread damage. Regular beach cleanups act as a frontline defense, preventing the spread of pollutants and preserving the integrity of these vital ecosystems. All of our residential and travel programs do regular beach sweeps, ensuring to collect as much debris off the beach as possible.

Here at WB Surf Camp, our mission is to cultivate a love and respect for the ocean by building confidence, developing character, and inspiring stoke through safety, fun, and learning. Through all of our programs, we make sure to teach the importance of the connection between ocean conservation and surfing. We believe that all surfers should learn the importance of conservation to preserve what we love. Whether you take a private lesson on Wrightsville Beach or travel to Cosa Rica for a week, we make sure to instill a sense of conservation responsibility in every one of our campers, that there’s more to surfing than just standing up on the board. The ocean is a beautiful place, let’s do everything we can to protect it!