## The Coast Is Always Being Saved: Inside the Save The Waves Coalition Summit
“The coast is never saved, it’s always being saved.” That phrase is credited to the late Peter Douglas, the former executive director of the California Coastal Commission and coauthor of the Coastal Act. Although Douglas helped usher in the landmark law in 1976, his words are still relevant and are echoed by surf conservation groups decades later.Douglas’s message summarized the theme of the 2025 Save The Wave Coalition Summit, a three-day event that went down in Santa Cruz, Calif., last week. The nonprofit dedicated to protecting surf ecosystems invited more than 100 members,partners and guests from around the world,including its 13 World Surfing Reservesto meet each other, share best practices and brainstorm on ideas big and small.
Save The Waves
One of the biggest takeaways was a growing need to bring more interested parties, not just surfers, into the surf conservation tent, and to show lawmakers that waves mean more than a few happy surfers. STW recently published a study on how surfing contributes nearly $200 million a year to Santa Cruz’s economy, how projected sea level rise could alter some of the town’s most frequented surf spots, and how much money could be lost if that happens.
This is where Save The Waves’ model provides an open door. By creating coalitions,it doesn’t apply a blanket approach to its World Surfing Reserves or “save” surf ecosystems on its own. It relies on groups of invested individuals who identify areas that are crucial to them. Rather, it helps locals to identify and pursue protective measures that fit their needs.
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Though World Surfing Reserves don’t guarantee immunity or legal protection, organizing a group of local stakeholders who will go to bat for a wave or surf zone when it’s in trouble is impactful. This was underscored by Mauro Figueiredo,a brazilian environmental lawyer,surfer,and founder of APRENDER Ecology Institute,a nonprofit that is working with Conservation International-Brazil to establish a national network of Brazilian surfing reserves. The goal is to build a management program to monitor waves and advocate for lasting progress on the Brazilian coast.
“If you build a platform that engages people, goverment and policy makers, you don’t need a specific law,” Mauro said. “You can integrate other regulations that protect coastal zones in the platform of the surfing reserves. that’s what we’re doing in Brazil, and others are doing in other parts of the world.
“we believe that surfing reserves are the platform to accelerate the implementation of public policy, empower people to implement those policies, to advocate for those policies, and integrate these policies to protect waves,” he concluded.
The desire to enjoy the ocean’s beauty is almost universal, but recognizing the need to actively protect it is indeed where true impact begins. While anyone *can* enjoy the ocean, a growing movement emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from dedicated conservation efforts. This approach, prioritizing proactive protection over passive enjoyment, is proving to be deeply rewarding for those involved.
The Shift from Recreation to Restoration
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For many, the ocean represents recreation – surfing, swimming, boating, and simply enjoying the coastline. However, increasing environmental pressures, including ocean acidification, rising sea levels, and plastic pollution, demand a more active role from ocean users. The idea is shifting from simply taking from the ocean to giving back, recognizing that a healthy ocean is basic to continued enjoyment.
The Allure of Conservation Work
The sentiment expressed – that conservation work is “far more rewarding” than simply enjoying the ocean – resonates with a growing number of individuals. This isn’t merely about altruism; it’s about a deeper connection to the environment and a sense of agency in protecting it.Conservation work provides a tangible way to address environmental challenges and witness positive change firsthand. This can range from participating in beach cleanups to supporting scientific research or advocating for sustainable policies.
Examples of Rewarding Conservation Efforts
- Coral Reef Restoration: Volunteers and scientists are actively restoring coral reefs, vital ecosystems threatened by climate change and pollution.
- Marine Wildlife rescue & Rehabilitation: Organizations like The Marine Mammal center rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured marine animals.
- Plastic Pollution Removal: Initiatives like the Ocean Cleanup are developing technologies to remove plastic from the ocean and prevent further pollution.
- Sustainable Fisheries Support: Supporting fisheries that practice sustainable harvesting methods helps ensure healthy fish populations for future generations. NOAA Fisheries provides details on sustainable seafood choices.
- Coastal Habitat Restoration: Restoring mangrove forests and seagrass beds provides crucial habitat for marine life and helps protect coastlines from erosion.
Why Conservation Feels More Fulfilling
The sense of fulfillment derived from conservation work stems from several factors:
- Direct Impact: Conservation efforts often yield visible and measurable results.
- Community Building: Conservation projects frequently involve collaboration with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community.
- Personal Growth: Learning about marine ecosystems and conservation techniques expands knowledge and promotes environmental awareness.
- Positive Contribution: Knowing you are actively contributing to the health of the planet provides a profound sense of purpose.
Looking Ahead: A Future Driven by Conservation
As the challenges facing our oceans become increasingly urgent, the shift towards proactive conservation will only accelerate. the recognition that enjoying the ocean comes with a responsibility to protect it is growing, and the rewards of that protection – a healthy planet and a fulfilling sense of purpose – are immeasurable. Investing time and energy in ocean conservation isn’t just about saving the ocean; it’s about investing in a sustainable future for all.
Related: Saving Our Surf might potentially be the Best Way to Save the Planet