In an ongoing effort to protect and preserve Half Moon Bay, the Mavericks surf break and its surrounding environment, Clif Bar & Co. will return as a partner for The 2007 Mavericks Surf Contest. In addition to the purchase of wind energy credits to offset CO2 emissions produced by the event, the partnership creates additional initiatives that will continue to minimize the impact of the Contest, including “Cool Tags,” the formation of a Green Team and the set-up of special Eco Stations. The use of alternative energies and sustainable materials in addition to the establishment of alternate viewing options for the Contest will also support lessening the environmental impact.
“Clif Bar is proud of the ongoing partnership with Mavericks and the mutual commitment we have to minimize the environmental impact of this legendary event,” said Field Marketing Manager for Clif Bar Peter Berridge. “These waves are larger than life, much like global warming and other environmental issues we all face. To be humbled by Mother Nature is an important step towards learning to work in harmony thats exactly what these big-wave surfers are doing.”
Renewable Energy Credits and Cool Tags
With Clif Bars assistance, MSV is again proud to continue its groundbreaking commitment to “climate neutrality.” As in 2006, Clif Bar will fund the purchase of enough renewable energy credits from NativeEnergy, a renewable energy firm, to offset the 86.6 tons of CO2 its estimated Mavericks competitors and event staff will generate through air travel, ground transport, hotels, watercraft and aircraft used during the event. In addition, event attendees will again have the opportunity to purchase “Cool Tags” for $2 each. One Cool Tag provides enough energy credits to offset the amount of CO2 the average car emits in a 300 mile trip. For each Cool Tag sold, Clif Bar will invest $2 in NativeEnergys Wind Builderssm program, helping the Rosebud Sioux Tribe to construct the Rosebud St. Francis Wind Farm in South Dakota.
Green Team and Eco Stations
MSV continues to pay special attention to preserving the fragile environment around Pillar Point by introducing to this years Contest a Green Team, a group of volunteers dedicated to the successful communication and activation of onsite environmental activities. Eco Stations with recycling and composting containers, in addition to standard garbage cans, will be placed throughout the venue, along with signage directing spectators to avoid environmentally sensitive areas. The Green Team, in cooperation with Contest staff and Clif Bar, will encourage spectators to adhere to these guidelines.
Alternative Energies and Supplies
In the quest to cut down CO2 usage even further, MSV will power the 2007 Contest with an onsite generator that utilizes bio-diesel fuel and will provide solar-powered showers for the 24 competitors. With help from Clif Bar, MSV has also encouraged vendors to use recycled paper, cornstarch utensils and other eco friendly materials.
Alternate Viewing Options
To give fans the option of not having to travel to Half Moon Bay on Contest Day, MSV is bringing the wave to the fans through a free live webcast on CBS Sportsline.com. Additionally, MSV has entered into a unique partnership with AT&T Park in San Francisco, Calif. where fans can watch all of the riveting action live on 15, 37″ flat screen plasma televisions located in the Parks exclusive Field Club Lounge.
“Mavericks Surf Ventures is proud to be the steward of this world class event, but also recognizes the importance of taking a leadership position in protecting the sensitive site that is the venue for the Mavericks break and the Contest,” said Mavericks Managing Partner Keir J. Beadling.
