Eco-friendly freeride skis developed by Earlybird

Business Case

Last updated: Feb 5, 2025

Summary

Earlybird Skis, a Swiss company, has developed the world's first fully recyclable freeride skis. By utilising bio-based and recycled materials, along with an innovative epoxy resin, they have created high-performance skis that minimise environmental impact. This initiative exemplifies the application of circular economy principles in the sports equipment industry.

Problem

Traditional ski manufacturing relies heavily on non-renewable materials and energy-intensive processes, resulting in products that are difficult to recycle at the end of their lifecycle. Consequently, a significant number of used skis end up in landfills, contributing to environmental degradation.

Solution

Earlybird Skis addressed this issue by designing skis using sustainably sourced materials such as FSC-certified wood for the core and sidewalls, and recycled steel for the edges. They employed a novel, bio-based epoxy resin that can be dissolved, allowing for the separation and recycling of individual components at the end of the skis' lifecycle. Additionally, the manufacturing process is powered by renewable energy sources, further reducing the carbon footprint. 1

Outcome

The result is a range of high-performance freeride skis that are fully recyclable and carbon-neutral. Earlybird Skis' commitment to sustainability has been recognised with awards such as the ISPO Gold Winner in the Snowsports Hardgoods category. Their approach serves as a model for integrating circular economy principles into product design and manufacturing within the sports equipment industry. 2

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Involved organisation(s)

Key elements of the circular economy

Contributors

Owner

Contributor

Date added: Jul 6, 2022

Last updated: Feb 5, 2025

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