The inspiration for my campaign, Claim Your Change, came from wanting to help disengaged surfers discover their power to protect the environment. Many corporations who create destructive projects get their funding from centralized banks that use our deposits for their loans.
I documented Bank of America, one of the largest funders of coal power worldwide, using our deposits to fund a proposed coal plant that would destroy people’s health, livelihood and the environment in Chile.
I started a campaign that called for people to take their money out of B of A and open accounts at their local banks, to cut off the life force of funding to environmental destruction and simultaneously support stronger local economies.
I’ve documented that over $110 million dollars of lending power has been moved as a result of the project.
Comments
Comment by Julie Miller on July 28, 2010 @ 5:21 pm
Kyle, after backpacking with you, your dad and Toby, I moved $2,000 from BOA to my local Credit Union. Had no idea that doing a simple thing could make such a difference. Julie
Comment by jaylyn brendlen on August 19, 2010 @ 10:01 pm
Hi Kyle, I just came across you in the good times and looked your sites up. Its good to see good people like yourself making a true posative change, especially in a way that is influencing the world. I too live in Santa Cruz, 29 yrs old and just started a clothing company dedicated to USA made, grown and sewn clothing. I would like to sponsor (support) your project. Please contact me at your nearest convenience. Thank you,
Comment by Bryan on August 19, 2010 @ 10:42 pm
Keep up the good work!
Comment by MD on July 18, 2011 @ 10:23 pm
Power of choices. Didn't realized a little change could make such a difference. Moved money to local bank today!!! Thanks man. Keep it up..... people are listening.
Comment by 21-Year Old Pro Surfer Starts ‘Surfing for Change’ to One-Up Recycling | MTV Act Blog on August 11, 2011 @ 6:54 pm
[...] your money in a local bank [see Claim Your Change] ... Shopping locally and responsibly is also a big one. I think it's also important to have fun [...]