Study Argues Surfing’s $2.7-Billion Value to Australian Economy Warrants Better Protection of Coasts
Photo: Brandon Compagne//Unsplash
According to research conducted by the Australian National University (ANU), adult surfers across Australia spend an average of $3,700 each year in their quest for waves. That accounts for equipment like boards and wetsuits as well as travel accommodations, filling up the gas tank on road trips or everyday drives to the local, and even dropping a couple bucks here and there for wax. When those same researchers scaled that individual number to the nation’s surfing population, they estimated the sport injects $2.7 billion in the economy each year.
What do those researchers suggest we do with this information? Create greater protections for Australia’s 1,440 documented surf spots.
“What we’re trying to get across is an understanding that waves and the surf breaks that generate those waves are valuable,” ANU’s Ana Manero said.“They are valuable for people’s wellbeing, are valuable for community collectiveness and are valuable to the economy.”
The researchers pointed out that of those 1,400-plus surf spots, only 20 actually receive any kind of legal protection in Australia. These protections are afforded by the New South Wales Crown Lands Act of 1989 and Victoria’s Heritage Act of 2017, they say, while World Surfing Reserves or other endemic conservation efforts can help but they lack any true legal weight.
The research also pointed to mental and physical wellbeing associated with surfing, although the researchers didn’t attribute a dollar amount to that benefit.
“This economic and social impact assessment highlights the opportunity for coastal planners and policymakers to recognize the significance of recreational surfing, warranting targeted management towards greater coastal resilience and a sustainable ‘blue economy’,” the study concluded.
