ENVIRONMENT,HAMPTONS

Ocean Avengers Liev and Taylor Schreiber

Surfrider Foundation fetes the power couple at its annual One Ocean gala at the Crow’s Nest in Montauk. Here, the Schreibers tell Purist about the importance of ocean protection.

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Liev and Taylor Schreiber, photo courtesy LIev and Taylor Schreiber

by Ray Rogers

PURIST: How does it feel to be honored at the One Ocean gala in Montauk this year?

LIEV AND TAYLOR SCHREIBER: A bit like imposter syndrome. It’s a huge honor and one we’re not sure we deserve. We both love the ocean, and so of course we’ll do what we can to help protect it. Surfrider is the real MVP here! 

You support many charitable endeavors. Why is the Surfrider Foundation dear to you? 

TS: They are doing more for our oceans than any other organization I know of. From campaigning in D.C. for federal legislation changes, to education programs for sustainable landscaping, to water testing in local communities. They cover all of the bases and go to the root of the problem. 

You’re both longtime ocean advocates. What first drew you to Surfrider’s mission, and how has your involvement evolved over the years?

LS: We first heard about some work Surfrider was doing in Montauk and wanted to support their local efforts. We attended one of their events, learned more about their mission, and have been all-in since.  

Who are your past or present role models who’ve shaped your values around stewardship/sustainability? 

TS: As a freediver and marine-life lover, I’ve always been awestruck by Ocean Ramsey and her bold attempt to change the narrative about sharks. 

LS: Sylvia Earle, Johan Rockström, Jean Oelwang. 

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The One Ocean gala honorees. Photo courtesy Liev and Taylor Schreiber

How do you inspire one another to stay committed to causes like this?

LS: It’s something we both care deeply about. We try to find ways to make it a part of our everyday lives. 

In these unprecedented times where environmental advocacy can feel overwhelming, how do you stay hopeful?

TS: Liev is great at taking it all in bite-sized pieces and reminding me of the power of unity to facilitate change.  

As parents of a baby girl, how much more important is it to be of service and support the health of our oceans?

TS: Hazel is almost 2 and is a little fish! It’s been so fun to watch her develop a love of the ocean. We want her to be able to experience the same magic in and around the ocean that we have. So yes, the work of Surfrider feels particularly important to us right now. 

What’s the perfect family beach day on the East End? 

LS: All of the kids together—super rare these days!—without any phones (even rarer!). 

What are some sustainable habits that you incorporate in your everyday life that you feel make a difference?

TS: Composting. Liev got me a compost machine for my birthday, and I’m such a nerd about it. We also never go down to the beach without bringing garbage back up with us. surfrider.org