The surfboard industry faces a significant challenge with material waste and environmental pollution, largely due to the abundant use of toxic materials like polyurethane foam, fiberglass, and polyester resin. These materials, common in traditional surfboards, not only generate large amounts of waste during production but also do not break down in landfills. Foam offcuts, fiberglass scraps, and excess resin from the manufacturing process typically end up as waste, contributing to long-term pollution. Over 400,000 new surfboards are made a year, and an unknown number of old surfboards are discarded into landfills. Furthermore, the chemicals involved, like styrene and toluene diisocyanate, pose risks to both humans and the broader ecosystem​.

The need for change is becoming increasingly urgent, with many manufacturers experimenting with alternative, eco-friendly materials. Companies are beginning to make the shift to using sustainable materials such as bio-based epoxy resins and wood from responsibly sourced forests.

A promising new development in this push for new, more sustainable approaches to surfboard creation is being created by Swellcycle, a startup based in Santa Cruz. Swellcycle is pioneering the use of recycled materials, such as hospital trays and other plastic waste, to 3D-print surfboards. Their boards are not only made from repurposed materials but also offer performance comparable to traditional foam boards. This innovative technology reduces the need for virgin plastic production and addresses the waste generated by surfboard creation. After the surfboard reaches the end of its life, it can be broken down into filaments and turned into another product like surf fins rather than being trashed in the landfill like a traditional board. The startup will be sharing more about its surfboards and circular manufacturing methods in Santa Cruz Works Company Spotlight Breakfast event at the Swellcycle headquarters.

If you are interested in discussing sustainable technologies and learning more about the surf industry and Swellcycle’s technology, please join us for our upcoming a company spotlight breakfast event. We welcome community members, industry, and surf enthusiasts to join us on Friday, October 18. Please register at bit.ly/swellcycle1018. FREE FOR SCW MEMBERS (Enter your promo code at the top of the ticket selection page!)