040: Become an Eco-Friendly Traveler with Evan Orellana of Surfrider Foundation

Have you ever felt like travel has led you to a deeper commitment to protecting our planet? Do you wonder what your environmental impact is as a world traveler? In this episode of the "Transform with Travel" podcast, I sit down with Evan Orellana, the regional manager of the Surfrider Foundation for Florida and Puerto Rico. Evan shares his journey from a sea turtle nesting monitor to an advocate for ocean conservation, highlighting the powerful influence of travel and the crucial work of Surfrider in protecting our coastal environments.Travel has shaped Evan's commitment to ocean conservation. Trips to Guatemala with his father revealed the powerful and sometimes untamed nature of the ocean, offering a stark contrast to Florida’s relatively calm beaches. These experiences underscored the global importance of protecting our marine environments.The Surfrider Foundation, founded in 1984, focuses on protecting the ocean, waves, and beaches for all people. With over 180 chapters and 200 student clubs nationwide, Surfrider tackles issues like plastic pollution, beach access, and clean water rights. Their efforts emphasize the need for community involvement and proactive measures against climate change.Plastic pollution, particularly single-use plastics, is a significant threat to our oceans. Evan highlights the alarming spread of plastics, even in the most remote areas like the Antarctic sea floor. The pervasive nature of plastic waste underscores the need for global action and individual responsibility.Evan offers practical advice for travelers to minimize their environmental impact.Thanks for tuning in to another episode of the Transform with Travel podcast. Remember to subscribe, rate, and review, and share this episode with a friend to spread the word about the incredible work being done to protect our oceans and transform lives through travel.We talk about:00:00 Intro02:23 Rapid Fire Questions with Evan03:41 Evan's Passion for Marine Biology04:22 From New York to Florida: Evan's Story08:57 Discovering a Love for Surfing13:08 Travel Experiences and Ocean Conservation18:42 Surfrider Foundation's Mission and Efforts23:34 Understanding the Impact of Plastic Pollution29:05 Legislative Efforts for Ocean Protection34:22 Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel36:24 The Impact of Single-Use Plastics in Underrepresented Countries37:02 Traveling Responsibly: Reducing Waste37:43 The Power of Consumer Choices41:32 Supporting Local and Sustainable Businesses43:20 Ocean Friendly Restaurants: What to Look For48:59 Getting Involved with Surfrider53:47 Final Thoughts and Call to Action01:01:52 ConnectConnect with Evan & SurfriderSurfrider Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surfriderflpr Surfrider Website: https://florida.surfrider.org Surfrider Ocean-Friendly Hotels: https://www.surfrider.org/programs/ocean-friendly-hotels Email Evan at [email protected] Connect with meFollow the Podcast on IG: http://www.instagram.com/transformwithtravel   Follow Kelly Tolliday on IG: http://www.instagram.com/kelly.tolliday Travel with RNR: https://risingnatureretreats.com Thanks To Our Sponsors:Child & Company: Child & Company is our podcast recording HQ. Offering hybrid childcare & co-working facilities in Boca Raton, Child & Company is your go-to spot. Follow Child & Company on Instagram at @childandcompany // https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/childandcompany Byte & Coffee: Check out Byte & Coffee for delicious Aussie coffee located in Lighthouse Point, Florida. Mention Transform with Travel at checkout for 10% off your order. Follow Byte on Instagram at @bytencoffee // https://transform-with-travel.captivate.fm/byteandcoffee