Coast Connect is a comprehensive platform designed for accessing blue spaces sustainably, based in Exeter, England.
Founded by our Grand Challenges team in 2023, we offer information and tools designed to reduce carbon emissions and environmental damage. We do this by planning carbon-saving public transport journeys and carpooling to beaches for users, providing bespoke sustainability information for each beach or coastline.
By offering a space for renting and sharing second hand equipment, we can prevent plastic pollution and the pricing-out of disadvantaged peoples from watersports.
Sustainably sharing the sea
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Sustainably sharing the sea
Why are we doing this?
Accessing blue spaces is beneficial for human mental and physical health, giving:
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Improved mental wellbeing
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Proven beneficial effects as seen by evidence of attention restoration theory & stress recovery theory
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Increased connection to nature, potentially spurring on future activism and movements
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As a result, a narrative has been created that more people should access beaches and green spaces, and as a result beach visitor numbers have risen.
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However, access to beaches is often inequal:
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​Cultural and economic factors lead lower income and ethnic minority households to visit the beach less and often be priced out of using equipment for beach sports.
​We will therefore present solutions to the physical barriers that limit beach access , predominantly costs and transports, to help allow the benefits of blue spaces for all
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Using blue spaces for our personal enjoyment can end up unintentionally impacting coastal systems and vulnerable marine environments