Big waves won't cut it. Surfers want healthy oceans too. Trekking across trash-strewn beaches or swimming in degraded water has inspired the surfing community to take action, which is why International Surfing Day was created five years ago by the Surfrider Foundation and Surfing Magazine to celebrate the sport and protect the ecosystem that makes it possible. On June 20, scheduled cleanups will take place on nearly a hundred beaches in United States and worldwide. Prizes will be awarded to winners of fun challenges including the finding most unique piece of trash, collecting the most plastic bottles, and riding the most ecofriendly surfboard. To participate, look for an event in your area or simply head to your favorite beach, pick up some trash, snap a few photos, and upload them to the International Surfing Day Web site.
--Della Watson