3 Reasons Why for the Planet, Foamies Suck
There are three main reasons why foam surfboards, specifically those made in masses in factories and sold at surf shops, online on Amazon, and at Costco, are horrific for the environment. We love to save money and be frugal as much as the next surfer does, but when choosing your surf school for surf lessons, your kids' surf camp, and the like at Los Angeles beaches, make sure yours has the right mentality and practices with the surfboards and wetsuits they use.
1. Foam is a non-renewable fossil.
Firstly, these foam boards are made using non-renewable resources, such as petroleum-based chemicals, which contribute to environmental degradation and climate change. The production of these boards also generates significant amounts of waste and pollution, which further harm the environment. Foam, a material commonly used in surfboards, can have a devastating impact on our oceans and reefs. When foam boards break or are discarded, the foam can break down into tiny particles called microplastics, which can enter the ocean and accumulate in marine life. These microplastics can cause harm to marine organisms and ecosystems, ultimately affecting the health of our oceans and reefs. Therefore, it's essential to choose sustainable alternatives to foam boards to protect our precious marine environments.
2. Foam is a non-recyclable ocean killer.
Secondly, these foam boards are not biodegradable and cannot be recycled, meaning they will ultimately end up in landfills or oceans, where they will remain for hundreds of years. This has devastating consequences for marine life, as well as the health of our oceans and planet as a whole.
When foam particles from surfboards and other sources enter the ocean, they can have detrimental effects on marine organisms and reefs. These microplastics can be ingested by organisms such as fish and plankton, which can lead to health problems and even death. Additionally, microplastics can damage and disrupt reef ecosystems, causing long-term harm.
As a surf school offering surf lessons and surf camp experiences in Los Angeles, we understand the importance of protecting our oceans and marine life. By choosing sustainable alternatives to foam boards and promoting environmentally conscious practices, and getting the few foam boards we DO have second hand, we can help preserve our oceans and ensure a healthy future for marine ecosystems.
3. Alternatives are key.
Finally, creating boards out of sustainable materials is key to the future of surfing. Fortunately, there are a growing number of surfboard manufacturers who are committed to using sustainable materials, such as wood, bamboo, and cork, which have a much lower environmental impact. By supporting these manufacturers and choosing sustainable surfboards, we can help to protect the environment and ensure that future generations can enjoy the sport of surfing without causing harm to our planet.
In conclusion, it is clear that foam boards, particularly those made in masses in factories and sold at surf shops, online on Amazon, and at Costco, are horrific for the environment. Creating boards out of sustainable materials is the key to the future of surfing and protecting our planet. By making sustainable choices and supporting manufacturers who are committed to sustainability, we can all play a role in preserving our oceans and the environment for generations to come.
Support my surf school so I can follow my dream:
To one day become a key player in making sustainable surfboards for our beloved surf community!