SIMA, the Surf Industry Manufacturers Association has generated more than $6.2 Million for non-profit environmental organisations. SIMA was founded in 1989 and has been supporting environmental groups which protect our oceans, beaches and waves. This year’s Annual Watermans weekend raised more than $400k to help protect surf locations across the globe. Paul Naude, SIMA Environmental Fund President says ‘This year, we are extremely honoured to pay tribute to Shane Dorian, Jean-Michel Cousteau and the much loved, late Sean Collins as they are members of our tribe who have helped change the face of our sport, industry and ocean environment’
Legend and big wave surfer Shane Dorian was paid tribute to by winning "Waterman of the Year", and Jean-Michel Cousteau won Environmentalist of the Year" award. This year’s funds will be pumped directly into supporting twenty non-profit organisations. These organistaions play a vital role in defending our marine environment and educating people on how to play their part in conserving this precious eco system.
Funds will be given to the following organisations: Surfrider Foundation, Ocean Institute, WildCoast, Heal the Bay, Orange County CoastKeeper, Surfing Education Association, Alaska Wilderness League, Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Algalita Marine Research Foundation, Save the Waves Coalition, Reef Check and many other institutions.