Surfers spend more time in and around nature than a lot of other people, and it’s because of that that we at Aloha Surf Journal decided to get their thoughts on it. We sat down with Adriano and asked him a few questions about his relationship, his experience, and the changes that are happening in the fight against marine pollution.
Do you think in surfing, more than in any other sport, there is a special relationship between surfers and the environment?
Of course there is a strong link between surfers and the oceans. Oceans are our second home! But seriously, it should be more. Most of the surfers are thinking about themselves more than what there is behind our passion: nature. People enjoy the beach and more generally all the beauty offered by nature, but don’t give back to it and do not believe it is important to protect it. For most of us, natural resources are almost immortal. People have to understand that if nothing is done really quickly we are going to lost everything we have enjoyed until now, forever.
Do you have a bad memory while surfing because of pollution?
I am from Sao Paulo, in Brazil, which is certainly the most polluted city in the whole country. I know that when I go surfing with my friends we expose ourselves to infectious deseases and other health issues linked to pollution. But waves are so good there that we have no choice! We are lucky to have good waves, beautiful beaches. I don’t know if the next generation of Brazilians will be able to say the same. Pollution is a major issue in Brazil, and considering the growth of population, the growing middle class with more needs in terms of consumption, the future of surfing in Brazil is threatened by pollution.
Do you see a positive or negative change regarding the ocean’s protection?
I really don’t know. It is a tricky question. On the one hand, it seems that environmental issues have more and more visibility within the public and political sphere, more and more people seem to be invested to protect our planet, to create new innovative solutions and to educate kids about environmental issues. On the other hand, our planet has never been so polluted. Everywhere I surf I see pollution. I really don’t know what to think. Humans are really strange.
Are you personnaly involved in the ocean’s protection?
No I am not involved in any organization. I didn’t have the chance to meet people who gave me the opportunity to invest myself into interesting projects in which I can really feel helpful. In fact, I don’t find any organization or association that act how I would like to act for ocean protection. But if one day someone proposes me the right project, I would be the first to help and to act for the environment. I hope my status of pro surfer could be useful in the future.
