Surfrider Chapter Meeting

Our local San Diego chapter of the Surfrider Foundation held its monthly meeting on July 19th in Forum Hall at UTC. It was an exciting event that many San Diegan activists attended. An educational video for kids made by the Surfrider Foundation and several students at San Diego State University was screened, and will be seen in local elementary schools. The video explained the dangers of dumping harmful products into storm drains that flow into the ocean, and also discussed the growing problem of ocean pollution and how to help combat this epidemic.

In addition, guest speaker Dr. Gordon La Bedz gave a fascinating lecture on how one's diet affects their health and the environment. Dr. La Bedz is a Physician and environmental activist from Long Beach, and has been involved with the Surfrider Foundation since it's beginning. He is also very involved with the Sierra Club. The lecture discussed low density lypo-protein (LDL), a toxic pollutant found in all bodies that has an inflammatory effect on one's arteries. The clogging of arteries by LDL leads to heart disease, strokes, and various cancers. The best way to avoid LDL, according to Dr. La Bedz, is to avoid saturated fat found in animal foods such as meats and dairy products, particularly cheeses. Dr. La Bedz suggested a diet with more focus on fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds. Eating lower on the food chain can vastly improve one's health and longevity. In addition to the personal benefits of eating healthier, one can also help protect the environment. Agricultural runoff produces massive amounts of water pollution, and the agricultural industry is exempt from many rules regarding ocean pollution that are enforced against other businesses.

All in attendance were captivated by Dr. La Bedz's lecture, and many questions were asked afterwards. At next month's meeting there will be a presentation on how the surf industry and surf travel impacts indigenous cultures in foreign lands. For more information about the San Diego chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, or how to join the Surfrider Foundation, please visit their website.