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With endless coastlines and pristine waters, Australia is a paddleboarder's paradise. But this natural wonderland needs our protection. Embrace eco-friendly practices so generations to come can enjoy the same aquatic playgrounds we do! Let's go green and keep the good vibes flowing.
Slather on reef-safe sunscreen
Sun protection is essential, but many sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that damage coral reefs and marine life. Make the switch to biodegradable, reef-safe formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. These provide broad spectrum protection without harming fragile ecosystems. Keep those rays at bay in an eco-friendly way!
Give wildlife a wide berth
Respect sea creatures and habitats by keeping a safe distance, resisting the urge to touch or disrupt. Whether spotting turtles or mixing with 'roos, we get to enjoy Australia's unique wildlife safely from afar. Never pursue or encircle animals for better views or photos. Let them thrive in their natural environments!
Join community cleanups
Rally your mates for cleanup events on land and sea to clear trash from beaches, rivers and ocean floors. Every bit of debris removed counts. You'll build camaraderie and feel good knowing you're making a real difference. Now that's a win-win!
Eco threads and sustainable style
Sport eco-threads made from recycled plastics, organic cotton and natural fibres. Look good knowing your duds reduce waste and pollution. Companies like Patagonia set the standard for stylish, ethical gear. Epic style meets environmental swag!
Travel green each time you get to the scene
Minimise your carbon footprint by carpooling, biking or taking public transport to paddle sites. If driving, choose a fuel-efficient vehicle. Offsetting vehicle emissions also helps! Efficiency and sustainability go hand in hand.
Secure your gear – don't contribute to clutter
Prevent accidents by strapping down belongings securely. Any lost or discarded items can become marine debris and damage habitats. Stay vigilant so your fun doesn’t harm our waterways.
Paddle at off-peak hours to spread out the stoke
Avoid overcrowding by hitting the water early in the AM or later in the evening. Spread out the love to reduce environmental impact! The waters are here for all to enjoy. Plus, wildlife viewing is best at less crowded times anyway!
Understand seasonal considerations
Some paddle areas may have restrictions during certain seasons to protect species during critical life stages like nesting and breeding. Understand and respect these closures.
Share green knowledge, foster eco values
As ambassadors for the sport, educate new paddlers on how to pursue the lifestyle sustainably. Together we can spread awareness and ensure these natural gifts last forever. Lead by example!
Try to Leave No Trace
Respect this magnificent place by packing out all waste and litter – no exceptions! Lead by example and remind others to leave no trace. Properly dispose of food scraps, fishing gear and human waste. Keep our earth awesome for generations to come by leaving campsites and beaches pristine.
You could do worse than to follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace Australia, (https://vslnt.com/programs/7-principles/#1), the organisation dedicated to promoting awareness, appreciation, and respect for our natural and cultural heritage down under. They advocate the following behaviours to help enjoy and protect the environment:
If you are planning to head out on a SUP camping expedition or even just a short creek paddle - think about how these principles apply to paddle boarding and help keep the outdoors great!..
