Plastic circularity will play a key role in reducing the quantity of plastics in the world’s oceans. According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), more than 8 million tons of plastics end up in our oceans each year, damaging marine ecosystems, including wildlife, fisheries and tourism. Abandoned fishing nets represent roughly 640,000 tonnes – or nearly 10% – of all plastic waste in the sea.
When Starboard approached us about using Akulon RePurposed for fins, fin boxes, SUP pumps and other structural surfboard parts, they made it clear that they needed a high-performance material that contributed to a circular economy. Founded in 1994, Starboard has been a leading windsurfing and paddle boarding brand for more than two decades.
Starboard’s vision sets its sights on being not only the best "in" the world, but also the best "for" the world. Their application needed a material that would be lightweight, tough and durable. It would have high exposure to water, salt water, sand and sun. And it would need to be made from feedstocks consisting of post-consumer materials.