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 Intro
• 02:23 Rapid Fire Questions with Evan
• 03:41 Evan's Passion for Marine Biology
• 04:22 From New York to Florida: Evan's Story
• 08:57 Discovering a Love for Surfing
• 13:08 Travel Experiences and Ocean Conservation
• 18:42 Surfrider Foundation's Mission and Efforts
• 23:34 Understanding the Impact of Plastic Pollution
• 29:05 Legislative Efforts for Ocean Protection
• 34:22 Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel
• 36:24 The Impact of Single-Use Plastics in Underrepresented Countries
• 37:02 Traveling Responsibly: Reducing Waste
• 37:43 The Power of Consumer Choices
• 41:32 Supporting Local and Sustainable Businesses
• 43:20 Ocean Friendly Restaurants: What to Look For
• 48:59 Getting Involved with Surfrider
• 53:47 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
• 01:01:52 Connect

Connect with Evan & Surfrider

• Surfrider 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 eorellana@surfrider.org 

Connect with me

• Follow 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