The Wave has completed its first six months as a Certified B Corporation, making it the world’s first B Corp wave pool. The company says the certification highlights their promise for sustainable surf park operations and responsible business practices.

“We remain incredibly proud of our B-Corp status and leading the surf park industry in pursuit of people, planet and profit sustainability” said Hazel Geary, CEO of The Wave. “This last six months has opened doors to great conversations and partnerships both locally and nationally as part of the B-Corp community, and we’re keen to ensure these collaborations continue to grow.”

What Does B Corp Certification Mean for The Wave?

B Corporation certification is awarded to companies that meet high standards of social, environmental, and financial responsibility. The Wave’s founder, Nick Hounsfield, has stated that the company adopted a sustainability policy in 2012, following a triple bottom line approach that prioritizes people, planet, and profit.

To meet B Corp wave pool standards, The Wave implemented several initiatives:

• Installed an on-site solar array in 2023 to generate renewable energy.
• Partnered with Good Energy to power its waves and shore lighting with 100% renewable energy.
• Developed surf accessibility programs, providing free and discounted sessions to underrepresented groups.

Hazel Geary says that in addition to the above listed trifecta, there are certain accomplishments that she holds dear.

“I’m personally very excited about The Wave’s emphasis on growth of Women’s surfing through our Sister Sessions programme for 2025 and making a significant dent in balancing gender representation in the line up.”

Future Sustainability & Accessibility Initiatives (2025-2026)

The Wave Bristol has announced plans to expand its sustainability initiatives and surf accessibility programs for 2025 and 2026. These include:

Women’s Surfing & Wellness Events

The Wave will host seven Sister Sessions, dedicated to women-only surfing, yoga, and wellness. These events aim to create an inclusive surfing environment that supports community engagement.

Renewable Energy Commitment

The surf park will continue to power its wave machines and shore lighting with 100% renewable energy, using on-site solar panels and Good Energy partnerships.

2025 English Para Surfing Open

The Wave will host the 2025 English Para Surfing Open, furthering its commitment to adaptive and inclusive surfing. The event will bring together para surfers from across the UK to compete in controlled artificial wave conditions.

Impact Programme: Free & Discounted Surf Sessions

The Wave plans to deliver thousands of free or discounted surf sessions through its Impact Programme, ensuring that surfing remains accessible to all, regardless of financial background.

The Role of B Corp Partnerships in Surf Park Sustainability

The Wave has collaborated with B Corp-certified partners, including Good Energy, DryRobe, and Rip Curl, to expand its environmental initiatives. These partnerships contribute to developing sustainable surf parks and encourage other wave pools and surf destinations to prioritize eco-friendly surf park models.

Why The Wave’s B Corp Certification Matters for the Surf Industry

By maintaining B Corp wave pool status, The Wave is setting a precedent for artificial surf parks worldwide. The commitment to renewable energy, sustainable surf practices, and social responsibility aligns with a growing demand for eco-conscious tourism.

As the first surf park to achieve B Corp certification, The Wave is hopefully influencing how wave pools and surf parks approach sustainability and community engagement.