Author: admin

University of Richmond hosted a screening of the documentary Cigarette Surfboard as part of the 2026 RVA Environmental Film Festival. We went and met the filmmaker, Ben Judkins.

The film is a documentary that follows surfer and designer Taylor Lane. He sees a problem and takes action.

He builds a functional surfboard from 10,000 cigarette butts collected from California beaches; “Ciggy Board”. He researches and documents the toxicity of cigarette filters that end up in our oceans/beaches. And, in aquatic life and human bodies (not good).

The Ciggy Board serves as a platform to discuss ocean stewardship, plastic pollution, and holding Big Tobacco accountable for toxic waste.

Lane pursued legislation to band the sale of cigarettes with filters. Think one use waste that’s toxic. Scientifically proven.

The fight continues. What can you do to be part of the solution?

It’s been almost 20 years since my wife and I joined forces in our home. With just under three acres and 3,600 sq. ft. of interior space, it’s keeps us busy. Both inside and out.

Right now, a young red-shouldered hawk is perched outside my window eyeing a few dozen song birds clamoring about. And he/she is well aware of the squirrels scurrying in the trees. We’re surrounded by trees on three sides of the property as well as heavy vegetation on the road side. The road out front allows us easy access to the newly opened Fall Line Trail and major highways; very enjoyable and convenient place to live.