Fast Fashion, Ocean Plastics, and Ethical Apparel: In Conversation with Rodrigo Ximenes

“At times it can seem like the problems facing the oceans are insurmountable. But the power to do more and to be better is in the hands of each and every one of us. Together, through little steps, we create change.” – Rodrigo Ximenes

A lifelong surfer originally from Brazil, Rodrigo Ximenes took the ocean for granted until a 2007 surf trip to Bali exposed him to the staggering reality of ocean plastic pollution. Determined to be part of the solution, Rodrigo founded Panamuna – an ethical, sustainable surf apparel brand dedicated to fighting fast fashion, eliminating textile waste, and protecting the ocean playground.

We caught up with Rodrigo to discuss sustainable manufacturing, community activism, and shifting industry mindsets.

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Snapshot Profile

• Name: Rodrigo Ximenes
• Role: Founder & Owner at Panamuna
• Specialism: Sustainable & Ethical Apparel, Zero-Waste Printing, Ocean Activism
• Certifications: GOTS Organic, Carbon Footprint Trust, Fairwear Foundation, PETA-Approved Vegan, 1% for the Planet

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The Interview

What inspired you to dedicate your work to protecting the oceans?

Rodrigo: I’ve been a surfer pretty much my entire life – the ocean is my playground, my peace, and where I cleanse my soul. For a long time, I took it for granted.

It wasn’t until a surf trip to Bali in 2007 that the mass pollution of our oceans became starkly evident. It had been my childhood dream in Brazil to surf perfect waves, but I was shocked by the amount of plastic floating in those picturesque breaks. In Bali, I couldn’t ignore that we were facing a future with oceans full of plastic. I couldn’t stand for that, and I knew I had to act.

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How is Panamuna tackling the environmental impact of the clothing industry?

Rodrigo: The fashion industry is the second-worst polluter on the planet behind petroleum, with roughly 85% of textiles ending up in landfills each year. Furthermore, washing synthetic garments like nylon and polyester sends tens of thousands of microplastics straight into the sea.

At Panamuna, we build things differently:

• Sustainable Materials & Ethical Labor: We use only natural and recycled materials certified by GOTS, Fairwear Foundation, and PETA.
• Print-to-Order Model: We print in small, local batches using print-to-order techniques, eliminating deadstock and textile waste from unpopular designs.
• Zero-Plastic Packaging: Orders ship in 100% compostable, PVC-free packaging or post-consumer cardboard boxes.
• Education & Activism: Every shirt design carries a message. We host beach cleanups, attend rallies, and empower consumers to make conscious choices.

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What does the broader surfing industry need to do better?

Rodrigo: More companies need to change their mindset and think beyond profit margins. When you create something with pure intent and consider your total impact, the benefits extend far beyond the person wearing the gear.

Surf brands, competitions, and events must take concrete action to minimise their footprint on the planet.

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Rodrigo’s Inspiration & Community Recommendations

Organizations & People Driving Change

• Project Hiu & Madison Stewart (SharkGirl): Transforming shark fishing boats in Lombok, Indonesia, into eco-tourism surf charter vessels to provide fishermen with sustainable, alternative incomes.
• Local Champions: The Ethical Turtle (Port Douglas), Five Oceans, Surfrider Foundation, Positive Change for Marine Life, and Shark Conservation Australia.
• Education & Resources: Gen Blue Education, The Sustainable & Ethical Fashion Guide (My Healthy Soul), and Panamuna’s online Journal.

Essential Documentaries

• Blue: The Film
• Envoy: Shark Cull

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Final Thought

Rodrigo: “Education and small steps towards a more sustainable and ethical lifestyle are paramount. That’s why we continue to build our Panamuna community – our ‘Conscious Minds Crew’ – because together, we create real change.”