“The ocean is our planet’s life support system. It gives us every second breath we take.” – Alexandra Richards
In the lead-up to Project Zero’s annual Beach Cleanup and Celebration for Coral at The Surf Lodge in Montauk on August 10, we caught up with longtime supporter and featured DJ Alexandra Richards, who has been instrumental in using her platform to spotlight ocean health and coral reef preservation. The day begins with a morning cleanup at Montauk Town Beach and culminates with a sunset celebration at Surf Lodge, featuring music, an art auction, and a powerful mission: to raise awareness and funds for coral reef restoration. Richards shares why this cause hits close to home, how art can drive impact, and what she hopes guests take away from this one-of-a-kind event.
How did your involvement with Project Zero begin?
ALEXANDRA RICHARDS: I’ve been a water baby all my life. I was lucky enough to travel and grow up on beaches as a young child. Now having my own children I’ve been very alarmed with how it has become very sick and degraded. I saw a very concerning documentary back in 2009 called The Cove, and I was trying to figure out a way I could help. Michele Clarke asked me to DJ events for the early days at Project Zero so I could learn more and learn how I could imprint onto others how to do better.
What made you want to stay involved with the organization?
RICHARDS: Project Zero takes a fresh approach to the issue of ocean health by creating new ways for people to learn, be inspired, and be part of the change to make things better. Also, instead of creating new projects we help others finish them. This was a whole new approach to organizations than what I had known. That’s what I love about what we do. We are building and growing a global movement to restore the ocean and blue carbon ecosystems. The ocean is our planet’s life support system. It gives us every second breath we take, and there are so many beautiful creatures that need a healthy home.
Why is protecting our oceans — and specifically coral reefs — such a personal cause for you?
RICHARDS: Being sustainable is a way of life so it carries across all aspects of my life. I’d also like to point out that no one is perfect. What is important is that we are all doing something to reduce our individual impact on the ocean — and our planet. I believe a great way to start is to start small and get in the rhythm of that change you made to better our planet. I first eliminated the use of plastic straws and brought a tote bag with me everywhere.
Can you share with us a memory of visiting a coral reef somewhere in the world and why that visit left a strong impression on you?
RICHARDS: The Great Barrier Reef visit I had when I was 10 years old was the most inspiring trip I’ve ever had under water. Swimming and engaging with the life under the sea like that was priceless. Going back at 26 years old wasn’t anything like I remember — a lot of coral bleaching has occurred and roped off areas where you can swim. Before, none of that had existed. Climate change is among us. Fact: our planet is warming up.
This year’s beach cleanup and afterparty at Surf Lodge is such a dynamic blend of activism and culture. What inspired the format of the event?
RICHARDS: Each year, we partner with iconic Hamptons destinations to amplify our mission, and Surf Lodge was the perfect fit for this year’s event. They share our passion for sustainability and truly appreciate the importance of blending environmental action with culture and community.
The Coral Collective is at the heart of this fundraiser. Can you tell us more about the initiative and the impact it’s making?
RICHARDS: The United Nations Global Fund for Coral Reefs got in touch and wanted us at Project Zero to create an initiative to bring coral into culture. The Coral Collective is that initiative. We are working to create elevated, special moments in art, music, and collaborations that raise the profile of the importance of coral reefs — and revenue to help save them from extinction.
All funds that The Coral Collective raises go to support the work of a vast network of projects that have been vetted by the United Nations Global Fund for Coral Reefs and the International Coral Reef Initiative. The projects mainly help to make coral reefs more resilient — so protecting them, helping stem the tide of pollution that flows on them, and employing new methods to help make them healthier to withstand the pressures of climate change. There are some really interesting things going on in the coral space, and we’re thrilled to be working alongside these leaders in helping to save coral reefs from extinction.
Art and music are central to this year’s celebration. How do you see creative expression playing a role in environmental advocacy?
RICHARDS: For centuries we have had art and music raise awareness for our environment. I believe it’s a really special platform as an artist to showcase your love for the environment. Doesn’t matter how many followers you have — you’re doing your part by inspiring someone next to you. Reducing your waste and raising awareness has always been my part and involvement with Project Zero.
What do you hope guests walk away with after attending the August 10 event — beyond a great time at Surf Lodge?
RICHARDS: We hope that people join us in our fight to save coral reefs. They truly are the rainforests of the sea, supporting 25% of all life in the ocean. We hope people walk away with a commitment to joining us in this mission.
Is there a quote or song that has always inspired your work protecting the oceans and coral reefs?
RICHARDS: “Individually we are one drop, but together we are an ocean.” — Ryunosuke Satoro
Looking ahead, what’s next for you and Project Zero? Are there future collaborations or events we should keep an eye on?
RICHARDS: We are working on a lot and encourage people to follow us @projectzero and @coral_global to stay in touch with all that’s coming up on the horizon. More on all of that — so please stay tuned!
