How Does Surfrider Celebrate 40 Years of Ocean Protection?

With a party, of course! On October 18-20, 2024, 400 ocean conservationists from around the globe gathered in Long Beach for Surfrider’s Super Summit, marking four decades of dedication to ocean and coastal protection. Representatives from Canada, Japan, Senegal, Europe, Australia, and across the U.S. came together to celebrate Surfrider's mission: the protection and enjoyment of the world's oceans, waves, and beaches for all.

 

The event kicked off Friday night with a mixer where new friendships were formed, and old friends reconnected. Each attendee received a Sand Cloud towel as a welcome gift, and an impromptu karaoke night showcased talents that went well beyond ocean advocacy!

 

Saturday’s agenda opened with remarks from Surfrider CEO Chad Nelsen, followed by an inspiring conversation with Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert. Gellert shared Patagonia's commitment to environmental stewardship, explaining how the company is now held in a trust and nonprofit structure that directs profits toward protecting nature. Patagonia, a long-time Surfrider supporter, embodies the type of business that prioritizes environmental sustainability. 

 

 

The night ended with a celebratory reception where Surfrider San Diego’s Ocean Friendly Restaurants (OFR) Program was honored as a Coastal Champion, marking it as the first chapter to reach 100 OFRs!

  

On Sunday, the morning began with a fireside chat featuring Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist, policy expert, and co-author of the Blue New Deal. Dr. Johnson captivated the audience with insights from her work with Urban Ocean Lab and her playful reminder that even in the serious fight against climate change, it's essential to keep our spirits up. Her Anti-Apocalypse Mixtape—full of anthems for resilience, love for the planet, and energizing tunes for tenacity—brought a hopeful note to the weekend.

 

Sunday wrapped with additional breakout sessions, covering topics such as: 

One of the most impactful sessions, Addressing Water Quality and Advancing Environmental Justice on Our Coasts, highlighted Surfrider's Clean Water Initiative and the ongoing work to bring safe water access to all communities. This initiative is advancing in environmental justice in areas facing severe water pollution, including Hawaii and the U.S.-Mexico border in Southern California. Un Mar de Colores, a community partner, shared their collaborative work with the San Diego chapter to address the environmental health crisis in South Bay. Together, these efforts aim to tackle pollution and advocate for clean, safe water access in frontline communities disproportionately affected by environmental hazards, underscoring Surfrider’s commitment to protecting both people and the planet.

 

As we look forward to the next 40 years, the Super Summit reminded us of the power of community and collaboration in our mission to protect and enjoy the world’s oceans and coasts. Here’s to a future where every shoreline remains clean, healthy, and accessible to all!

 

As we celebrate 40 years of impactful work, we’re reminded that the future of our oceans depends on passionate supporters like you. Join the San Diego Chapter and stand with us in the fight to protect our coastlines for generations to come. Your membership fuels initiatives that tackle plastic pollution, improve water quality, support Ocean Friendly Restaurants, and much more.