International Surfing Day: June 20, 2013
One of the most important days of the year will be here soon:
International Surfing Day! June 20th, 2013!
Okay, so maybe it pales in comparison to your son or daughter’s birthday, grandparent’s golden anniversary or other such annual celebrations. However, if you’re a surfer or ocean lover who works 9-5, it is a day that might require you to scan a medical dictionary for a random 24 hour illness, forge a doctor’s note, put your pasty butt into some boardies or suit and find something to do in the water or on the sand.
Do it.
As ocean-minded people, we should always find a way to give back to our beaches that continuously provide us with some of our best life experiences.
The Surfrider Foundation is a great resource to find your local beach clean-up as well as ways to get involved with other charitable activities.
Here are some ideas to consider for June 20th,:
- Go Surfing…and pick up some trash, too:
Well, DUH. Whatever you decide to ride, get out there and catch some wavos. Oh and while you’re at it, pick up some trash. Don’t deny it. Whether it’s in the sand or the parking lot, even the water, trash is there. And that is very LAME. If you have no time to give a beach clean-up a-go, it doesn’t hurt to pick up a few pieces of trash on your way to the water. Find a sanitary way to scoop it up and put it in the nearby trash can. A little bit can a go a long way! This awesome organization agrees with me.
- Join a Beach Clean-Up!
There are organizations all over the states and the world that would froth for your time to clean up your local beach. Get involved!!
- Do Your Homework
If you can watch swell charts and wind speeds on an hourly basis, you can keep up with the issues facing your local breaks and wildlife:
Water Efficient Landscaping for Texas
- Be a Smarty Pants!
Take the time to understand the laws and regulations that govern this country’s environment and you’ll be A-Okay.
So get out there, ride some waves, pick up some trash and smile at the locals! Good vibes for all!
Happy International Day of Surfing!!
A Little Litter For Thought:
Litter Item |
Time to break down |
Glass bottles |
1 million years |
Monofilament fishing line |
600 years |
Plastic beverage bottles |
450 years |
Disposable nappies |
450 years |
Aluminum can |
80 – 200 years |
Foam plastic cup |
50 years |
Plastic bag |
10 – 20 years |
Cigarette filter |
1 – 5 years |
Source: US National Park Service; Mote Marine Lab, Sarasota, Florida |