Oceana and Boardmasters: A Partnership for Ocean Protection
Championing the Cornish Coast
Oceana is the official environmental partner of Boardmasters, Cornwall’s own surf and music festival which, since its inception, has proudly called the Cornish coast home. Together, these two organizations aim to raise awareness and take action with a shared mission to protect the ocean and coastlines.
New Initiatives for Marine Protection
This year, Boardmasters is amplifying its commitment to environmental sustainability by advocating for an end to destructive fishing practices within marine protected areas (MPAs). In collaboration with local arts students from Falmouth University, Boardmasters and Oceana are creating impactful protest art that will be showcased at The View stage during the festival, calling for genuine protection of marine habitats.
The Urgent Need for Action
The urgency of this initiative is highlighted by alarming statistics: the marine protected area off Newquay, where the festival is held, experienced 2,494 hours of apparent bottom trawling in 2025. This harmful fishing method, which is allowed by the government year-round in this MPA, devastates the seabed and indiscriminately collects marine life, jeopardizing the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Boardmasters’ Commitment to Sustainability
Since its inception, sustainability and environmental awareness have been core values of Boardmasters. The festival has consistently taken groundbreaking steps to mitigate its environmental impact through collaborations with leading consultants and innovative organizations. Initiatives like the festival’s Green Pledge and the #LeaveOnlyFootprints campaign demonstrate its dedication to tangible environmental results. An annual impact report is also conducted to assess, learn, and improve sustainability efforts.
Collaboration with Oceana
Through partnerships with organizations like Oceana, Boardmasters continues its mission to be one of the most environmentally conscious and low-impact festivals in the industry.
Voices of Commitment
Rob Spring, Festival Director of Boardmasters, emphasizes the importance of sustainability:
“Sustainability matters to us at Boardmasters, and we know there’s always more to do. We’re grateful to work alongside Oceana, and this year we have invited students from Falmouth University to help shine a spotlight on this vital issue through their creativity. It’s part of our ongoing effort to protect the coastline we’re lucky to call home.”
Hugo Tagholm, Executive Director of Oceana UK, adds:
“It’s inspiring to work with the Boardmasters team and passionate local arts students to bring this vital message to everyone who attends this brilliant festival. It’s appalling to think that while we surf the waves of Newquay’s world-class Fistral beach, out at sea ocean life and habitats are being degraded and destroyed. We must ensure our marine sanctuaries are properly protected to safeguard ocean health and allow UK seas to thrive once again.”
Oceana’s Global Impact
With over 300 victories in combating overfishing, habitat destruction, oil and plastic pollution, and other environmental threats, Oceana’s efforts yield significant results worldwide. Operating from Cornwall and London, Oceana UK’s campaigns prioritize scientific backing and advocacy to protect UK seas, focusing on ceasing new licenses for oil and gas, halting overfishing, and banning destructive bottom-trawling practices in marine protected areas.
Festival Details
Boardmasters will take place from 5th – 9th August 2026. For more information, visit Boardmasters’ official website and Oceana’s Instagram account.
Conclusion
The partnership between Oceana and Boardmasters exemplifies a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. By leveraging creativity and community engagement, they are not only raising awareness but also inspiring action to protect vital marine ecosystems. As the festival approaches, the collaboration serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to safeguard our oceans for future generations.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the Oceana and Boardmasters partnership?
The partnership aims to raise awareness and take action to protect the ocean and coastlines, focusing on ending destructive fishing practices in marine protected areas.
How is Boardmasters involving local students in this initiative?
Boardmasters is collaborating with arts students from Falmouth University to create original protest art that will be displayed at the festival, highlighting the need for true marine protection.
What harmful fishing practices are being addressed?
The initiative specifically targets bottom trawling, a destructive fishing method that severely damages marine habitats and ecosystems.
When does Boardmasters take place?
Boardmasters will be held from 5th – 9th August 2026.
