Climate change is something everyone should care about, but for surfers, it’s especially personal. We spend more time on the beach and in the ocean than most people, and because of that environmental issues hit home a bit harder for us. After all, who wants to paddle out and be surrounded by trash? We’re also more directly impacted by environmental changes, since our sport is entirely dependent on the health of the ocean. Without clean water, properly cared for beaches, and safe conditions, surfing could disappear.
Here are my top three climate related concerns when it comes to preserving and protecting the ocean—and why every surfer should care about them, too.
1. Protecting Our Beaches
Without beaches, the number of accessible surf breaks would plummet. Since they are often the first touchpoint on land for many storms, beaches are particularly vulnerable to erosion and storm damage. Each winter, powerful storms pound the New England coast, posing a growing threat to our shorelines. If these areas are not protected, they will become virtually inaccessible. Additionally, there are many times when beaches must be cleaned up after storms. Debris left unattended to can damage the ecosystem, as well as become a hazard for indefinite periods of time – who wants to have to surf around large pieces of wood or rocks?!
2. Keeping The Water Cool and Clean
One thing I love about surfing in Maine is the relatively low risk of shark encounters. Colder water temperatures are part of the reason for that. But with ocean temperatures rising each year, that could change. This summer, I’ve seen more seals close to shore than in any of my 22 years here. The ecosystem is shifting, and it will continue to if we don’t take action. While surfing in Maine is still safe, we can’t take that for granted. Climate change could bring new risks and challenges to our waters.
As a surfer, there’s nothing worse than sitting on your board in water that smells or is noticeably unclean. It’s certainly not fun to surf in, but worst of all it signals unhealthy oceanic ecosystems. Keeping our beaches and waters free of pollution isn’t just about preserving beauty—it’s about keeping the sport alive. Surfers have a unique responsibility to lead the charge in protecting these spaces.
3. Preserving Surfing for Future Generations
Many of today’s best surf spots exist because of reefs and sandbars—features that could be destroyed by stronger storms and changes in ocean chemistry. Surf camps, surf lessons, and many other amazing youth programs that provide many kids with an outlet would no longer be options.
Surfing shaped my childhood and teenage years, and I can’t imagine growing up without it. Future generations deserve that same connection to the ocean. That means taking action now—protecting our coasts, reducing our environmental impact, and being mindful stewards of the sea are critical.
For surfers, protecting the ocean isn’t optional—it’s part of what you sign up for when you paddle out. Our sport depends on healthy beaches, stable ecosystems, and safe waters. By caring for the ocean today, we ensure that the stoke can be passed down for years to come.