A Realistic Solution for Plastic Pollution? This Mad Surfer-Scientist Thinks So

Ry Harris Plastic Pollution (1:31)

To best explain, we'll leave it to Ryan's own words, "Plastic pollution is everywhere—on our beaches, in our oceans, and even in our bodies as microplastics. As an eco-friendly surfboard pioneer, I launched the zero waste initiative over seven years ago to reduce the harmful waste from surfboard manufacturing. Two winters ago, after a record El Niño brought unprecedented rainfall to Southern California, I witnessed a shocking amount of plastic trash washed up on the beaches and floating in the water. That moment changed everything for me. I began collecting discarded plastic, shredding it, and searching for a way to give it new life."

"This past summer, with the help of a high-density plastic shredder and a network of generous donors, beach clean-up volunteers, and kind community members, we developed a method to upcycle plastic trash into surfboard fins. Now, we’re ready to take the next step: launching the most sustainable surfboard fin line ever. To scale up, we need to invest in an industrial injection molder from Precious Plastics, a convection oven for bulk melting, multiple custom aluminum molds for different fin sizes and bases, and a carbon filtration system to ensure clean production."

"With your support, we can bring this innovative product to market by the holiday season. Every contribution helps us reduce plastic waste, protect our oceans, and inspire a new standard for sustainability in surfing. Join us in turning plastic pollution into a force for good—one surfboard fin at a time."

Please donate here.