The health of our ocean is under pressure—from pollution, climate change, and underfunded protection agencies. In the U.S., the proposed 2026 budget threatens massive funding cuts to NOAA and the EPA, two of the most critical agencies for protecting coasts, clean water, and marine life. These cuts would weaken everything from beach water monitoring to climate research, leaving our oceans and shorelines more vulnerable than ever.
While these proposals are still under debate in Congress, they serve as a stark reminder: ocean health is not guaranteed—and the fight to protect it is far from over.
Thankfully, organizations like the Surfrider Foundation are taking action.
Surfrider Canada: Leading the Way in Coastal Protection
While Surfrider USA continues to lobby for vital funding and public engagement, Surfrider Foundation Canada is tackling ocean protection from a different angle—by reducing plastic waste at the source.
Their latest initiative, ReSurf, is Canada’s first-ever surf gear circularity program, launched on May 9, 2025. Based in Ucluelet, BC, on the unceded and traditional territory of the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation, this groundbreaking program aims to divert thousands of kilograms of discarded neoprene wetsuits and polystyrene surfboards from landfills.
The ReSurf Program is tackling the growing volume of surf gear waste through reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling. At the West Coast Landfill alone, up to 6,000 kg of wetsuits and 5,000 kg of surfboards are thrown out every year. ReSurf offers the first real solution to this issue in Canada.
The program’s innovation doesn’t stop at recycling. Its “Blue Barrel” facility will serve as a hub for ongoing research and development, in collaboration with surf brands and shapers, to push the boundaries of sustainable surf gear.
Why It Matters
With surfing’s popularity on the rise globally (up 35% over the past decade), the environmental footprint of the industry is growing too. Without programs like ReSurf and the advocacy work done by Surfrider on both sides of the border, this footprint risks becoming permanent damage.
From plastic bans in Tofino and Ucluelet to victories like the federal ban on single-use plastics, Surfrider Canada continues to prove that grassroots efforts can lead to national change.
How You Can Help
🌊 Join your local Surfrider chapter – Whether you surf or not, your voice and time can help protect our coastlines.
🌊 Donate to Surfrider Canada – Help fuel programs like ReSurf and ongoing policy advocacy.
🌊 Spread awareness – Share stories of ocean advocacy and sustainable surf innovations with your community.
Surfrider Foundation’s mission is clear: the protection and enjoyment of the ocean, beaches and waves, for all people. Together, we can ensure future generations experience clean water, thriving ecosystems, and a strong surf culture that respects the planet.
🔗 Learn more about ReSurf and Surfrider Canada’s mission at surfrider.ca
📩 Media Contact: Adam Gilmer, ReSurf Program Manager, adam@surfrider.ca
