5 Awesome Things Happening In Sports For The Planet Right Now

In the world of sports, athletes and enthusiasts alike have always been considered as trailblazers in terms of health, fitness, and overall wellness. However, in recent years, the sports industry has also taken the lead in promoting sustainability and environmental conservation. Thanks to some innovative companies and their eco-friendly approaches in producing sporting goods, now we have sustainable and environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional sportswear and equipment. So, here are some updates on the latest eco-friendly, sustainable sporting goods that we can all be excited about!

1. Eco Friendly Sporting Goods

While leather still reigns king in many sporting goods, so does toxic plastics like PU and PVC, but new companies like Eco Sports is tackling the challenge of replacing leather and toxic plastics with a biodegradable vegan leather that is much more sustainable for the planet. Animal agriculture is a leader in climate change so by not using leather, you are actively participating in helping our climate. 

2. Sustainable Apparel: Eco-friendly sportswear

It has come a long way in recent years. Companies are now developing fabrics from organic, recycled, and sustainable materials. For instance, Adidas and Nike are now using recycled plastics to create their iconic shoes and jerseys. Other brands such as Patagonia and Columbia Sportswear are also producing eco-friendly lines of outdoor wear, from hiking boots made from vegan materials to backpacks made of recycled nylon.

3. Recyclable Equipment: Sports equipment and gear

This sector is also getting eco-friendly upgrades, making them easily recyclable at the end of their lifespan. For example, Repreve is a company that manufactures the world's leading recycled fiber made from plastic bottles, used for producing eco-friendly backpacks and athletic apparel. There is also a growing trend of producing sporting goods from natural materials, such as bamboo, cork, and organic rubber. These materials are biodegradable and sustainable, avoiding a significant environmental impact.

4. Synthetic Turf: Plant Based Turf

Artificial turf has been a popular choice for creating playing fields for soccer, football, and other sports. However, as we all know, synthetic turf is not environmentally friendly, as it releases microplastic and toxins into the environment. Fortunately, researchers have developed new technologies for using biodegradable plastics, corn starch, and organic materials for synthetic turf production. This new eco-friendly turf material can last for years without causing any harm to the planet.

5. Waste Reduction & Recycling Programs at Sporting Events

Lastly, as sports enthusiasts, we all have a responsibility to reduce our waste and promote recycling at sports events. Organizing sustainable sports events, such as employing recycling programs, limiting plastics, and composting food waste, prevents landfills from filling up with waste. Promoting good practices can go a long way in reducing the environmental impact of sports events and making sports equipment more sustainable for the planet.

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6. Active Transportation: Bike Sharing Programs

One of the latest innovations in sports has been incorporating cycling, walking, and other forms of active transportation into events that would typically use cars or busses. For example, some marathons and bike events now offer bike valets, where attendees can park their bikes safely, making cycling easy and convenient. In many cities, bike-sharing programs and community cycle paths are becoming increasingly popular, making our daily commute a more sustainable and eco-conscious choice.

Innovative companies are taking sustainability and environmental protection seriously in the sports industry. From biodegradable plastics to eco-friendly fabrics, the options for sporting goods are endless. It is an exciting time to be a part of the sports world, where we can support environmentally responsible practices and incorporate eco-friendly habits into our daily lives. So, let's join hands in increasing environmental awareness in sports and lead by example, showing our commitment to sustainable practices.