Microplastic Impact on Surfers' Wetsuits and Gear
2024-10-16
The Hidden Danger lurking beneath the Surface: The Environmental Impact of Microplastics in Surfers' Wetsuits and Gear
As surfers, we know that catching a wave is not just about riding it to shore – it's also about enjoying the ocean, its beauty, and its unique ecosystem. However, our daily pursuit of stoke often comes with an unexpected cost: microplastics. These tiny pieces of plastic, shed from clothing and gear, have become a silent killer in our oceans.
A recent example of this issue comes to light through a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology. Researchers analyzed surfers' wetsuits and found that over 90% contained microplastics, with some samples containing up to 100 pieces per square centimeter. This may not seem like a lot, but it's enough to raise concerns about the long-term impact of our surfing habits on marine life.
The Source of the Problem: Microbeads in Surfing Lures
Microplastics are entering our oceans through various means, including microbeads in personal care products and microplastic debris from shipping and construction. However, it's particularly concerning that many surfers' wetsuits contain microplastics that have been shed during use.
The most common sources of microplastics in surfing gear are:
- Microfiber wetsuit fabrics: Many modern wetsuits are made with microfiber fabric, which sheds tiny fibers into the water. When these fibers become entangled with seaweed or marine life, they can be ingested by small animals, including fish and seabirds.
- Beach toys and inflatables: Beach toys and inflatables often contain microplastics, which are shed during use and contribute to the growing problem of microplastic pollution in our oceans.
The Impact on Marine Life
Microplastics have a significant impact on marine life, particularly small animals. When ingested, microplastics can cause physical harm, blockages, and even death. This has far-reaching consequences for entire ecosystems, including:
- Entanglement: Small animals become entangled in microplastic debris, which can lead to suffocation or drowning.
- Ingestion: Microplastics can be ingested by larger animals, causing physical harm or blockages.
- Bioaccumulation: Microplastics can accumulate in the bodies of marine animals, leading to long-term toxicity and death.
Regulations and Standards for Microplastic Content in Surf Gear
While there is no single "standard" for microplastic content in surf gear, various regulations and standards are being implemented to address this issue:
- EU ban on beach toys: In 2017, the European Union banned the use of certain beach toys that contained microbeads.
- US EPA's Microplastics Rule: In 2020, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a rule requiring manufacturers of personal care products to test for microplastic presence and remove them if found.
- ASTM F2413-20 standard: The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has developed a new standard for evaluating microplastic content in surf gear.
The Future of Surfing: Reducing Microplastics
As surfers, we have the power to reduce our impact on the environment. Here are some simple changes we can make:
- Choose eco-friendly wetsuits: Opt for wetsuits made with sustainable materials or those that are certified as microbead-free.
- Avoid using beach toys and inflatables: Choose alternative activities that don't involve beach toys and inflatables.
- Support manufacturers transitioning to microplastic-free gear: Encourage manufacturers to develop new products that meet the growing demand for microplastic-free surfing gear.
As we head into another surf season, it's time to take responsibility for our actions and protect the ocean's future. By raising awareness about the environmental impact of microplastics in surf gear, we can inspire change and promote a more sustainable surfing culture. The Hidden Danger Lurking beneath the Surface: The Environmental Impact of Microplastics in Surfers' Wetsuits and Gear
| Category | Description | Value (2020-2021 estimates) |
|---|---|---|
| Prevalence of microplastic contamination | 90% surfers' wetsuits contain microplastics, with some samples containing up to 100 pieces per square centimeter | |
| Types of surf gear that may be contaminated | Microfiber wetsuit fabrics (main source) and beach toys/inflatables (common sources) |
The Source of the Problem: Microbeads in Surfing Lures
Microplastics are entering our oceans through various means, including:
- Microbeads in personal care products: Sheds tiny fibers into water when washed or worn off
- Microplastic debris from shipping and construction: Enters the ocean through marine activities
The Impact on Marine Life
Microplastics have a significant impact on marine life, particularly small animals:
- Entanglement: Small animals become entangled in microplastic debris, leading to suffocation or drowning
- Ingestion: Microplastics can be ingested by larger animals, causing physical harm or blockages
- Bioaccumulation: Microplastics accumulate in the bodies of marine animals, leading to long-term toxicity and death
Regulations and Standards for Microplastic Content in Surf Gear
Some regulations and standards are being implemented to address this issue:
| Regulation/Standard | |
|---|---|
| EU Ban on Beach Toys (2017) | To ban the use of certain beach toys that contain microbeads |
| US EPA's Microplastics Rule (2020) | Requires manufacturers to test for microplastic presence and remove them if found |
| ASTM F2413-20 Standard | Evaluates microplastic content in surf gear |
The Future of Surfing: Reducing Microplastics
Some changes can be made:
- Choose eco-friendly wetsuits
- Avoid using beach toys/inflatables
- Support manufacturers transitioning to microplastic-free gear
