We love the ocean and are continuously looking for ways to integrate our love for the Big Blue into our lives. We are so grateful to be able to interact with the ocean daily, whether it is surfing, sailing, taking a coastal walk, or swimming. We value our position as ocean stewards. When we catch waves, we feel a unique connection to the ocean—its power, rhythm, and vast beauty inspire us. But with that love comes the responsibility of protecting this vital resource. As surfers, we are conscious of the importance of caring for the waters we ride, and making eco-friendly choices in surfing gear is a meaningful step toward ocean protection. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just starting, here’s what you need to know to make choices that respect our planet.
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Surfboard Wax
It may seem small, but surfboard wax can impact marine life and water quality. Traditional waxes are often made with petrochemicals that can leave residues in the water. Fortunately, there are now brands offering eco-friendly wax options made with natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and tree resin.
Pro Tips:
- Look for biodegradable waxes free from synthetic chemicals
- Keep an eye out for local artisan wax makers who use sustainable practices and ingredients—supporting small businesses and ocean health in one go!
2. Reef-Safe Sunscreen Is a Must
Protecting your skin while surfing is essential, but it’s equally important to use sunscreen that doesn’t harm coral reefs or marine life. Chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate in many conventional sunscreens are known to bleach and damage coral reefs. Instead, opt for mineral-based sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier against UV rays and are non-toxic to ocean ecosystems.
Quick Guide for Spotting Reef-Safe Sunscreens:
- Ingredients: Look for non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Labels: Check for certifications such as “reef-safe” or “biodegradable.”
3. Surfboards: Eco-Conscious Shaping and Construction
We are always amazed by the innovative materials that are coming up in the surfboard building and shaping process. The ECOBOARD project is aiming to make it easier for you to find alternatives to the traditional boards made of materials like polyurethane foam and polyester resins, which can be tough on the environment. Michel Stewart, the co-founder of the ECOBOARD project, which established the ECOBOARD label shows us that “ The simple act of choosing a more sustainable board can be an on-ramp into a dramatically more sustainable, ocean-friendly life.”
Eco-friendly surfboards now offer more sustainable options. A few examples include:
- Recycled Foam Cores: Using post-consumer or post-industrial foam to minimize waste.
- Wooden Surfboards: While not mainstream, wooden boards—crafted from sustainably sourced wood—are durable and have a classic feel.
- Natural Fiberglass Alternatives: Natural alternatives include flax or hemp fibers, which provide durable and lightweight options that are biodegradable and have a lower carbon footprint.
- Mycelium Cores: Some experimental surfboards use mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, to create a biodegradable core that is naturally lightweight and strong. These boards break down safely at the end of their lifecycle.
4. Wetsuits: Durable Over Disposable
Wetsuits present one of the bigger sustainability challenges. Neoprene, the material most wetsuits are made of, is derived from petroleum or limestone, both of which have significant environmental footprints. However, a few companies are stepping up to the challenge by offering wetsuits made from alternative, more sustainable materials, such as:
- Natural Rubber: Sourced from rubber trees rather than petrochemicals.
- Recycled Neoprene: Some brands recycle old wetsuits and scrap material to create new gear.
Another option is to invest in durability - a high-quality wetsuit that lasts multiple seasons will benefit both the ocean and your wallet!
We at Albatross Designs are exploring giving a second life to old wetsuits and upcycling the neoprene into new products. Stay tuned for more info!
5. Repair Before You Replace
Sustainability is as much about how long you use your gear as it is about what it’s made from. If your board has a ding or your wetsuit gets a tear, consider repairs before replacements. Many surf shops offer repair services, or you can find kits to do minor fixes yourself. Extending the life of your gear helps reduce waste and saves you money.
6. Small Accessories, Big Impact
The little things add up. Look for eco-friendly versions of items like:
- Leashes: Some companies now make leashes with recycled plastic or plant-based materials.
- Board Bags: Choose bags made from recycled or upcycled fabrics to carry your board with a lower carbon footprint.
- Fins: Eco-friendly fins are made from recycled materials or bio-based composites, reducing the reliance on conventional plastic.
In conclusion, every choice you make, from the sunscreen you put on to the board you choose to ride, supports or degrades the ocean’s health. Looking for sustainable options and taking good care of your equipment is one of the ways you can put into practice your love for the waves and the ocean. Surf’s up—let’s keep it that way, sustainably!
Whether you’re prepping for your next adventure or simply exploring new eco-friendly habits, remember that these small shifts in gear choices help keep the ocean thriving for generations to come. Share with us your favorite eco-friendly surfing choices at hello@albatrossdesigns.it!
Curious to learn more about sustainable ocean-inspired products? Check out our collection of eco-friendly items perfect for surfers and ocean lovers alike. 🌊
