Surfrider Foundation Is Protecting Oceans, With ‘One Beach at a Time’ Approach
Leading the charge in global efforts to address the critical issue of ocean conservation is the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Launched in 2017, this initiative serves as a symbol of international commitment to preserving our oceans.
Spanning the years 2021 to 2030, the primary focus of this ambitious endeavor is the urgent mission of combatting marine pollution.
In a world grappling with environmental challenges, one organization stands in the fight to protect our oceans, and they’re doing it “one beach at a time.” The Surfrider Foundation, a global non-profit dedicated to safeguarding the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches, is making waves with its unwavering commitment to preserving marine ecosystems and combating plastic pollution.
Born in Malibu, California, in 1984, the Surfrider Foundation emerged from the shared concern of a group of visionary surfers who witnessed the threats encroaching upon their beloved local surf break at Malibu Point. Over the years, this grassroots movement has evolved into a formidable global entity, uniting over one million supporters and members.
A four-pronged mission
At the heart of the Surfrider Foundation’s mission are four key pillars: combating plastic pollution, preserving water quality, advocating for universal beach access, and addressing the pressing issue of climate change. These pillars serve as the guiding stars in their relentless efforts to ensure the well-being of our oceans and coastal regions.
With plastic pollution emerging as one of the most daunting threats to our oceans, the Surfrider Foundation has taken up the mantle to combat this peril head-on. Their commitment to reducing plastic waste is evident in various initiatives, such as the elimination of plastic waste from global operations by 2025.
Moreover, the foundation has embarked on innovative sustainable practices. Their use of 100% recycled PET for watch boxes and crafting watch straps from salvaged ghost fishing nets sets an inspiring example for others to follow.
The Surfrider Foundation recognizes the need for a comprehensive approach to plastic pollution. They have partnered with the Plastic Pollution Coalition to create the Global Plastic Laws Database. This database, a groundbreaking initiative, brings together plastic legislation from around the world and organizes it into life cycle phases and key topics, including maritime sources, microplastics, waste management, and producer responsibility.
With input from approximately 115 countries and collaboration with multiple partner organizations, this database is a valuable resource for policymakers, organizations, advocates, businesses, students, educators, researchers, and humanitarian groups. It offers a blueprint for effective policies to address the entire lifecycle of plastics.
As the world races against time to combat plastic pollution, the Surfrider Foundation’s database is set to play a pivotal role. It is intended to support the development of the UN Plastics Treaty, an international policy for plastic regulation that aims to become a legally binding agreement by the end of 2024. With the Surfrider Foundation’s dedication to ocean protection and its comprehensive database, it’s poised to be a significant contributor to this global policy endeavor.
Partnership with Breitling
The Surfrider Foundation’s commitment to ocean conservation received a significant boost with a partnership with Breitling, a renowned Swiss watchmaker. Breitling’s dedication to protecting marine environments, dating back to the introduction of the SuperOcean watch in 1957, aligns perfectly with the Surfrider Foundation’s goals.
Breitling, recognizing the importance of clean oceans for current and future generations, has joined hands with the foundation to further the global fight against marine pollution. This partnership expands upon Breitling’s existing ties to the surf community and highlights their shared commitment to identifying and addressing the most pressing needs for ocean preservation.
One of the central actions stemming from this partnership is a series of beach cleanups worldwide. These cleanup efforts not only serve to protect and enhance coastal environments but also contribute to Surfrider’s advocacy work by collecting valuable data on the state of marine pollution.
Additionally, these cleanups are intended to inspire individuals to make positive lifestyle changes, promoting a healthier ocean for all.
The Surfrider Foundation’s dedication to preserving oceans, waves, and beaches, combined with their ‘one beach at a time’ approach, is a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against plastic pollution and environmental degradation.
As they continue to ride the waves of change, their impact on global ocean conservation remains both remarkable and essential.
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