In a bid to combat the throwaway culture prevalent in popular beach towns, TJ’s Surf Shop in Polzeath has taken a stand by eliminating single-use plastic products from its shelves. Situated near the entrance to Polzeath Beach, the store has long been a staple of the local surf scene since its opening in 1987. Now, its efforts are focused on reducing the environmental impact of beachgoers’ disposable items, such as polystyrene bodyboards and plastic buckets and spades.
Kie Owen, the shop’s supervisor, shared the shop’s commitment to sustainability and its positive reception from both locals and holidaymakers. “Over the last couple of seasons, we’ve made a concerted effort to phase out products associated with the throwaway holiday culture that often dominates beach towns,” Owen said.
Moving Away from Plastic
One of the most notable changes at TJ’s Surf Shop is the transition from plastic buckets and spades to metal alternatives, which, while more expensive, are designed for durability. Owen explained that many families, especially those on holiday, tend to opt for cheaper, disposable options, which are often used only once before being discarded. In contrast, the shop’s range of crabbing nets and lines, made from biodegradable materials, has been embraced by customers who are eager to make more sustainable choices.
However, it is the shop’s stance on plastic bodyboards that has drawn particular attention. “We do not believe there is a place for what are essentially single-use disposable bodyboards, not in Polzeath or anywhere on UK beaches,” Owen stated. He emphasized that these boards, which are commonly found in supermarkets, tend to snap after just a few uses and end up littering the beach. “While some argue that these affordable boards cater to a certain budget, the reality is they contribute to a cycle of waste,” he added.
Encouraging Investment in Quality
Owen acknowledged that some customers are initially shocked by the price of the more durable boards sold at TJ’s. However, once they understand the long-term value of a mid-range or high-end board, the shop’s customers are quick to appreciate the investment. “A higher-quality board may cost more initially, but it will last for five or six seasons, unlike the cheap alternatives that barely make it through one,” he explained.
In addition to promoting sustainable boards, TJ’s has noticed a revival of interest in traditional wooden bellyboards, a trend that Owen attributes to the growing appreciation for longevity in surfing equipment. Many of the customers using these old-school boards are pensioners who have owned theirs for decades, underscoring the sustainability of such products. “Seeing people return to these wooden boards has been encouraging,” Owen said. “It shows that people are looking for products that not only last but also hold sentimental value.”
A Call for Change
TJ’s Surf Shop’s initiative is part of a broader movement in Cornwall, where businesses and environmental advocates are pushing for a reduction in plastic waste. The shop’s efforts align with CornwallLive’s Ban The Boards campaign, which calls for an end to the sale of disposable bodyboards that harm the environment.
As part of this growing environmental consciousness, TJ’s is also educating its customers on the benefits of investing in sustainable products that align with both personal values and long-term environmental goals. With continued support from the community and a growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives, TJ’s Surf Shop is hopeful that other shops in Cornwall will follow suit in tackling plastic waste.