10 Ways to Care for Our Coastal Environment

Our coastlines are some of the most beautiful and biologically rich places on Earth.

They are home to a huge variety of animals and plants.  Beaches, dunes, rock pools, saltmarshes and seagrass beds, tiny crabs, to migrating and ground nesting shore birds.

Every visit to the beach is an opportunity to protect these fragile ecosystems.

As water‑loving people, we have a responsibility to lead by example and help others understand how to care for our coastal environment.

Below are 10 practical, easy ways to protect coastal habitats every time you visit the beach.

1. Sand dunes

Sand dunes are incredibly sensitive. Their structure depends entirely on the plants that anchor them. When vegetation is trampled, removed or damaged, dunes can collapse or erode quickly.

• Never walk, ride or drive on dunes.

• Stick to marked trails and designated vehicle areas.

• Set up your beach picnic on the sand — not on the dunes.

2. Rock pools

Rock pools are miniature marine worlds filled with plants, fish, snails and crustaceans. They’re wonderful for exploring, but they must be treated gently.

• Never take animals, shells or fish home.

• Always return rocks to their original position.

• Avoid leaving creatures exposed to sun and heat.

3. Seagrass beds

Seagrass meadows are vital feeding grounds for turtles, dugongs, fish, swans, geese, sea urchins and crabs. They also stabilise sediment and improve water quality.

• Avoid walking or dragging equipment across seagrass.

• Keep boats and boards clear of shallow seagrass zones.

4. Coastal saltmarshes

Saltmarshes support wading birds, fish nurseries and countless small animals.

• Observe wildlife from a distance.

• Do not disturb nests, feeding birds or resting migrants.

• Use binoculars rather than approaching wildlife.

5. Collecting shells

Shells aren’t just pretty souvenirs — they’re essential homes for hermit crabs and other small creatures.

• Leave shells where you find them.

• Enjoy them, photograph them, but don’t take them home.

6. Pollution

Beach litter harms wildlife, pollutes water and can take thousands of years to break down.

• Take all rubbish home.

• Recycle whenever possible.

• Pick up stray litter even if it isn’t yours.

7. Campfires

Campfires and disposable barbecues can destroy vegetation, cause burns, and spark wildfires.

• Only use designated fire areas where permitted.

• Never leave a barbecue behind.

• Fully extinguish fires and remove all equipment.

8. Protecting coastal plants

Coastal plants create shelter, stabilise dunes and support wildlife.

• Stay on marked paths.

• Avoid cutting through vegetation.

• Remember: every plant may be part of an animal’s home.

9. Respecting wildlife

Wild animals and birds can become stressed when approached too closely.

• Never touch or handle wildlife.

• Avoid disturbing nests, chicks or resting animals.

• Keep distance from migrating birds and seal haul‑outs / resting places

10. Cultural sites and customs

Many coastal areas hold cultural, spiritual or historical significance — from Aboriginal sites in Australia to sacred temples in Asia.

• Follow local cultural guidelines.

• Never remove artefacts or natural materials.

• Respect signage and restricted areas.

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Key Takeaway

Caring for our coastal environment is simple: stay on designated paths, leave nature where it belongs, respect wildlife, and take everything you brought with you back home.

Small actions from every beach visitor add up to big protection for future generations.

About ASI.

ASI is the global industry leader in training and accreditation in the surfing, SUP and bodyboarding industry, Established in 2003, at Bondi Beach, Sydney Australia, ASI Accredited Schools and Instructors abide by the high international standards for operations, training and safety.