How to be more Eco-Friendly while Paddleboarding

Make your SUP Experience more Eco-Friendly

Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is the fastest-growing outdoor water activity that creates the opportunity to paddle tranquil calm waters, race across the bay, or even catch some surf at Assateague Island. While SUP can be a fun and exciting way to explore the water, it’s essential to keep in mind the potential environmental impact it can have. Today, we’ll explore some tips and best practices for creating a sustainable and eco-friendly stand up paddleboarding experience.

• Choose eco-friendly gear: When selecting your SUP gear, choose equipment made from sustainable materials such as bamboo or recycled plastic. These materials have a lower environmental impact than traditional materials like fiberglass and foam. There are few companies that are working toward eco-friendly status in the board production and manufacturing of their boards. Check out Glide SUPs, Starboard SUP, and Infinity SUP for the top environmentally friendly companies. (For more information on Board Companies striving to be more environmentally friendly click here). Additionally, consider purchasing used gear or renting equipment from local shops to reduce waste. Many local SUP rental companies and schools will sell off most of their boards at the end of each season.

• Use eco-friendly sunscreen: Many sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can damage marine life and coral reefs. Look for a sunscreen that is reef-safe, meaning it does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, two ingredients that are known to be harmful to coral reefs. Mineral-based sunscreens are a good alternative and offer protection without harming the environment. Even though Maryland is not directly near coral reefs we all can do our part to protect the Chesapeake Bay and our local waterways from unnecessary harmful chemicals.

• Practice responsible paddling: Be mindful of your paddling technique to avoid causing unnecessary damage to marine life and vegetation. Avoid paddling in areas with high levels of vegetation and be mindful of wildlife habitats.

• Avoid littering and properly dispose of any trash you may have. I would also encourage you to pick up trash and litter you may see while on your paddle. If you aren’t following the SUPGarbageman on Instagram you need to. He basically goes out and paddles 3 -4 days a week and picks up tons (literally, a ton) of trash each year from the Potomac and other local waterways. Lastly, get involved in an area trash pickup, like the one on the Monococy River each year or the Baltimore Floatilla.

• Educate yourself and others: Take the time to learn about the local environment and any regulations or guidelines in place for SUP activities. Share this knowledge with others to promote responsible and sustainable paddling practices.

• Support eco-friendly organizations: Consider supporting organizations that work to protect your local environment and promote sustainable paddling practices. These organizations can help to educate the public on the importance of sustainability and provide resources for responsible paddling. Consider financially supporting or volunteering your time with the Oyster Recovery Partnership, the Chesapeake Conservancy, or the Waterkeepers Chesapeake. Lastly, sign up to support these organizations with your paddling and participate in one of the many paddling challenges and distances at the yearly Bay Paddle, or go full-on and paddle the entire length of the Chesapeake Bay.

By implementing these tips and best practices, you can help to create a sustainable and eco-friendly stand up paddleboarding experience for yourselves and everyone else. Remember to be mindful of your environmental impact and take steps to reduce your footprint. With responsible paddling practices, we can help to protect our waterways and ensure they are enjoyed for generations to come.

Disclaimer - this post contains affiliate links that help support this blog at no cost to you. Additionally, this entire article is based on the understanding that you have basic Stand Up Paddling safety knowledge and awareness; always wear your PFD and leash, and paddle with a friend and within your limits.