Study shows climate change worries surfers

A SURFERS for Climate survey has shown surfers are alarmed about climate change impacting their livelihoods moving forward.

The environmental action group recently surveyed 1,085 surfers from across Australia throughout its Swell Check Survey.

The survey set out to better understand how Australia’s surfing community viewed the environment, ocean conservation, climate change, renewables and their own role in protecting the places they love.

Climate change was seen as the biggest threat to the ocean by 66 per cent of surfers.

A further 82 per cent agreed there is an urgency to act now before it is too late.

“I don’t see myself as separate from the earth and its climate,” one respondent said.

“If my body is running hot, I’m unwell with a fever. I guess the same goes for the planet. We probably should do whatever we can to recover from the sickness.”

Beyond a heightened concern about climate change, surfers expressed their deep connection to the ocean.

An overwhelming 92 per cent of respondents said ocean protection was very important to them.

Many respondents described surfing as “more than a sport”, and moreso as a connecting to nature type of experience.

“The ocean can’t defend itself, so we need to do it for it,” one said.

“Every little bit of action helps. I try to do the best I can, both personally and professionally. I try to be a good example to my kids, workmates, and others,” another respondent added.

The survey also showed strong support amongst responders for the implementation of offshore wind projects at least 20 kilometres offshore.

Misinformation in this area, however, remains a challenge, with respondents expressing concerns on some misleading claims being circulated around on their impacts on the environment.

The Swell Check survey results suggested with the right outreach and education, support for

offshore wind among surfers and their broader networks could grow even stronger.

Surfers for Climate stated surf-led climate advocacy continued to make a difference.

“To everyone who took part in the Swell Check Survey – thank you.

“Your insights are helping to shape a movement that’s only just getting started. Surfers aren’t just out there enjoying the waves – we’re making sure they’ll be there for generations to come.

“Now’s the time to paddle out. Let’s make waves together.”