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“Just One Thing” : Protecting the Ocean starts with one simple act

ONE idea, ONE action, is sometimes all it takes to ignite a postive revolution of change. If we all commit to simple, individual initiatives to preserve the Ocean, together our impact will be great. On the occasion Surfrider Europe’s 30 Year Anniversary and World Ocean Day 2020, the launch of the “Just 1 Thing” unites and empowers us to fight for ONE common goal, the protection of the Ocean.

Surfrider Europe began with just one thing, and so can you. In 1990, a first thought followed by a decision to act brought the organization to where it is today.

With the “Just 1 Thing” awareness campaign, Surfrider Europe puts the responsibility of solving ocean pollution in every citizen’s hands. Through a dedicated grassroots community comprised of volunteers, members, and ambassadors, Surfrider Europe calls on every citizen to take the first step. By reducing our personal impacts and adopting simple changes, we will preserve the ocean, step by step. 

A first individual act towards a collective goal

The aim of this campaign is to ease the transition towards a more sustainable lifestyle by encouraging citizens to begin with changing “Just 1 Thing.” Each year nearly 8 million tonnes of waste are discharged into the ocean. 100% of this waste is human made, therefore we are an integral part of the solution. The ‘Just One Thing’ campaign follows the “Do Your Part” theory and the hummingbird philosophy co-founded by Pierre Rhabi where even the smallest gesture counts, thus celebrating the commitments of individuals who together have the power to make a lasting difference

This campaign offers each citizen the opportunity to talk about their act for the environment by posting a picture or a video of their action on social networks. By joining the movement, you are not only doing the important work, but you also become an ambassador for change and inspire others to do the same. 

No matter their size, all actions dedicated to the protection of the ocean contribute to its preservation. These actions should not be complex or intimidating. The idea is to begin your personal transition with small shifts that are within your capacity, and will therefore become second nature almost effortlessly. For instance, replace your dependency on single-use plastics by carrying reusable water bottles or tote bags.

We only have one planet, only one ocean and only one chance to reverse the trend. Through this new campaign, Surfrider Europe wishes to show that it is up to everyone to do just one thing in favor of the ocean, to preserve marine biodiversity and limit the effects of global warming. Every action, every gesture must be designed for our future and the one of generations who will follow. And you, with what will you begin? What will be your first act for the environment? Share your 1 action on social networks with the hashtgag #Just1Thing to make the difference together.