Recreational oceans: Clean beaches, get free surfing lessons

It all started after the foundation decided to spread awareness in the city about the same by involving volunteers from the public. The Bay of Life Foundation, invited people from all over Chennai to volunteer in cleaning up the beach for which they will be rewarded with a free surfing class. 

“This way, we hope to provide incentive for those looking to try out surfing, and contribute to our efforts in the process,” said Christan Noel, who manages the foundation. Volunteers who collect a minimum of 5 kg of non-biodegradable waste are trained in surfing for an hour-andhalf: a lesson worth Rs 1,500. 

“This is undertaken in the Kovalam Beach near Taj Fisherman’s Cove. This is where volunteers get to witness so much trash that is generated from the city, and single-use plastics that is strewn all over the beach or still floats in the ocean. We have been running the programme for around two months now,” said Christan. 

Showkath Jamal, trustee of the foundation, also plays an active role in the initiative and adds that the response has been encouraging. The team is also holding free beach safety sessions to involve more people. 

Noel adds, “Most people are scared of the ocean and don’t swim in it. We want to debunk that myth by promoting the ocean as a recreational space and inform everyone that it’s important to support nature. We are confident that the more time they spend in the ocean, the more they will want to protect it.” 

Apart from encouraging more youngsters and professionals to participate in this, the team also has plans to introduce this practice for fishermen in Kovalam.