An unexpected alliance is forming between environmental campaigners and the LGBTQIA+ wetsuit community, a scene often associated with sleek styling and the rubber fetish subculture. The connection? A shared passion for the water and a new campaign to clean it up.

Surfers Against Sewage (SAS), alongside other environmental groups, has launched a sponsored running challenge for February. The 'Run 47' initiative asks participants to walk, run, or jog 47 miles during the month to raise funds and pressure the government for stronger legislation on sewage pollution. For wetsuit aficionados who frequent online forums and real-world clubs centred on the gear, it presents a novel fitness goal with a powerful purpose.

The 47-mile target is symbolic, representing the 4.7 million hours of sewage discharged into UK waterways in 2024. The campaign comes at a critical time, with a Water Reform Bill expected this year. SAS states that every penny raised will support their fight for a bill that prioritises people and the planet over profit.

Surfer Freya, who is taking part, explained her motivation: "I'm a surfer, not a runner. But I'm running 47 miles in Feb to get me outside and active in between swells and boost my mental health. Also, I'm sick of surfing in sh*t! Water-users, wildlife and the ocean deserve better."

Fellow participant Seb added, "I'm doing Run 47 to combine my love for running with a commitment to protecting our oceans. I want to raise awareness and show the impact profiteering polluters are having on our seas and rivers."

For those in the wetsuit scene who champion both body positivity and environmental causes, the challenge offers a chance to mobilise their community for a pressing ecological fight. More information on the initiative can be found on the Surfers Against Sewage campaign website.