Every snowboarder develops a deep appreciation of the astonishing mountains and the wonders that snow can bring. It is nature that provides the feeling of fulfilment that comes from the sport. As the world is becoming more and more aware of climate change, likely, snowboard enthusiasts become rightfully concerned with the matters of sustainability and the environment.
In the snowboard industry (like many other snowsports), several brands are making tremendous sustainability efforts. For instance, resorts reduce their carbon footprint, and equipment manufacturers engage in fair labour and production. There are ski resorts in Australia that are powered by renewable energy. Snowboard brands like Burton produce goods through safe and fair conditions. Snowboarders can enjoy the sport while perpetuating an ethical and safe culture.
Seeing Opportunity in the Industry
The snow industry in Australia contributes over $2 billion per year. It is one of the largest fields of employment in the country. In Victoria, one summer alone adds $146 million to the state. This huge revenue in the industry offers many opportunities for its people. However, it is often the case that large industries have greater impacts on the environment.
It is a challenge to integrate sustainability into the industry. But it is also an opportunity, especially with snowboarding, where many Australians and tourists are engaging in the sport every year. By the turn of the century, many brands have turned towards sustainable roads. As conscious consumers, we can directly participate by being smart in our purchases. Starting with our purchases, we can contribute to a sustainable environment.
Durable is Sustainable
If you’re looking for sustainable snowboard gears, Burton is the brand for you. They initiated a Sustainability Strategy in 2012 and have, by far, succeeded in its implementation. Also, they influenced many other brands as a time-honoured manufacturer of snowboard equipment.
The company believes that the most sustainable product is one that lasts. They ensure durability with their material selection, product design, and manufacturing quality. In choosing their materials, they have a restricted substances list. Harmful materials like chlorinated solvents and heavy metals are eliminated.
In the actual manufacturing process, they use ReRex epoxy, which is environmental. It is a recyclable epoxy used in board materials (fiberboards, carbon, or expanded polystyrene or EPS). This adhesive allows the sorting of usable materials in a board, and subsequently, full recycling of the snowboards. In 2017, they diverted 60 to 85% of old snowboards from the landfill by recycling them.
For softgoods, they use textile and materials that have undergone safe processes. They are in partnership with design, a holistic system that approves clean manufacturing processes, such as air and water emissions. Materials with bluesign certification are guaranteed to come from sustainable textile production. By 2020, the snowboard brand has committed to 100% PVC-Free Durable Water Repellency (DWR).
Moreover, Burton provides a reasonable warranty period. This way, they can make repairs and ensure the continuity of the product. Not only does this build customer loyalty. It also makes longer use of a product and decreases waste. It is a win for all three: the customer gets quality equipment, the brand builds customer loyalty, and the environment benefits from this efficient relationship.
The brand maintains a responsible supply chain and adopts fair labour standards. They divert waste from landfills and eliminate harmful substances and materials. Furthermore, the brand encourages gender equity and develops a familial culture.