Josh Kerr, a former professional surfer and founder of Draft Surf, is now on a mission to protect the oceans he has always loved. After retiring from the World Surf League, Kerr has turned his focus towards sustainability, partnering with ACCIONA to create innovative surfboards from recycled materials.

Key Takeaways

• Josh Kerr is dedicated to ocean conservation and sustainability.
• He has partnered with ACCIONA to create surfboards from retired wind turbine blades.
• Kerr maintains his fitness through surfing and various cross-training activities.
• Surfing serves as both a physical workout and a mental escape for him.

A Lifelong Connection to the Ocean

Kerr’s journey began in the ocean, where he spent countless hours surfing. His passion for the sport led him to compete on the World Surf League circuit for nearly a decade. However, his retirement marked a new chapter, one focused on environmentalism and the health of our oceans.

"Environmentalism has always been something I’m interested in. As a surfer, I live in the ocean, and keeping our beaches clean helps protect the ocean for future generations," Kerr shared during a recent interview.

Innovative Surfboards from Wind Turbines

Kerr’s commitment to sustainability has led to an exciting collaboration with ACCIONA, a Spanish company known for its sustainable infrastructure and energy solutions. Together, they have developed ten prototype surfboards made from the blades of decommissioned wind turbines.

The process of transforming a wind turbine blade into a surfboard is surprisingly seamless, as both are typically constructed from fibreglass. The blades used for the surfboards were sourced from ACCIONA’s Waubra wind farm in Victoria and were re-engineered on the Gold Coast.

Key features of the Turbine Made surfboards include:

• Deck Strength: Built with repurposed turbine blade strips for enhanced strength and flex control.
• Fins: Made from recycled fibreglass, providing stability and speed.

Kerr has tested these boards and claims they perform exceptionally well, stating, "They’re really fun to ride. I’ve found some really fun things that you don’t really get on regular boards."

Staying Fit and Active

Despite stepping back from competitive surfing, Kerr remains active in the water. He surfs regularly, which he considers his primary source of fitness. However, he has expanded his fitness routine to include various activities that keep him engaged and healthy.

Kerr’s fitness regimen includes:

• Surfing: His main activity for fitness and mental clarity.
• Cross-Training: Engaging in sports like pickleball, golf, skateboarding, and snowboarding.

He emphasises the importance of staying fit for surfing, saying, "Wanting to surf actually helps me stay active, because I need to be fit to be able to surf."

The Mental Benefits of Surfing

For Kerr, surfing is not just about physical fitness; it also plays a crucial role in his mental well-being. He notes that approximately 70-80% of his surfing sessions are motivated by the need for mental clarity and relaxation.

"You always feel better after a surf. I feel much more refreshed for the day, my mind feels much clearer. It’s a bit of escapism – you get to leave the digital world behind," he explains.

Conclusion

Josh Kerr exemplifies a dual commitment to both personal fitness and environmental stewardship. By staying active in the water and advocating for ocean conservation, he is ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the oceans he cherishes. Kerr’s innovative approach to sustainability in surfing serves as an inspiration for both surfers and environmentalists alike, proving that passion for the ocean can lead to meaningful change.