This article was originally published on Outside
Skiing is arguably greener than F1 racing, but the industry still leaves a significant carbon footprint. Unless you’re ripping wood skis made before 1950, your setup probably uses a fair amount of metal, plastic, and other petroleum products.
Also, at this point it’s virtually impossible to recycle skis (unless you count the ski fences in mountain towns). Rossignol is trying to change that.
A French company is designing a (mostly) recyclable all-mountain ski called Essential, aiming to convert at least a third of all of the brand’s ski models into recyclable versions by 2028. The Essential will be made from 62% recycled material, with no solvents or water, even the graphics on the topsheet, says Rossignol.
More importantly, Rossignol said it plans to share its unique manufacturing process with other ski manufacturers so that more brands can start producing recyclable models.
“For more than 115 years, the Rossignol brand has been a leader in opening up the mountains to generations of skiers and riders, helping reduce the environmental impact of the industry as a whole and creating a cleaner future for generations to come. ‘ said Nick Castagnoli, Brand Marketing Director of the Rossignol Group. outside.
By sharing details of that process with its competitors, Rossignol says it will “encourage collective engagement that can move all stakeholders towards more sustainable production and a more circular economy.” He said he hopes
Vincent Waters, CEO of the Rossignol Group, said, “We are very aware of the current problems associated with recycling winter sports equipment today.” We have a social and environmental responsibility to address this, and our desire is to increase It’s about facilitating cooperative interactions. This move is possible. Together.”
Rossignol developed the Essential in collaboration with French recycling company MTB. This model is made with “as few materials as possible, all of which can be recycled and reused”. Discarded units are returned to Rossignol and parts are removed and used to manufacture new products.
The process of disposing of skis and sorting materials after return is facilitated by MTB. “The material could be reused in the automotive, horticultural or construction industries and in the future may be partially reused in new products from the Rossignol Group,” says Rossignol. specified on the website.
In addition to sharing Essential’s manufacturing methods, Rossignol hopes to facilitate the development of ski-specific recycling channels and help build a stronger circular economy in the ski industry. I plan to do so.
“By sharing the innovation and design of the first recyclable ski, Rossignol contributes to the global development of a joint initiative across different segments and global markets for the collection, recycling and reuse of winter sports equipment. I want to,” he said. .
The Essential, priced at $1,049 with bindings, will be available soon for next season at select specialty Rossignol dealers.
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