PADI and Circular Flow have announced a new program to establish and implement a sustainable neoprene recycling program.
The organizations estimate that yearly, over 8,380 tons/7.6 million kilos of old wetsuits are unused and enter landfill sites. The program aims to offer the industry a sustainable opportunity to start recycling these tons of neoprene wetsuits. The initial feasibility project is set to take place in the United Kingdom.
From August 11 through August 22, 2022, divers can bring their unwanted neoprene suite to participating dive centers in the UK. Circular Flow will then ship the material to a specialist facility and recycle it.
Commenting on the new program, PADI Worldwide CEO and President Drew Richardson said:
“PADI is committed to help reduce the global environmental footprint of the dive industry and support our members and divers to reduce impact as well. We are constantly looking for new and scalable ways to do so through our Mission Hubs across the planet. We are proud to introduce and test this ground-breaking recycling program into our community, enabling every diver to recycle neoprene as part of being an Ocean Torchbearer.”
You can find out more and get involved here.
