Clean Sailors expands ReSail platform to tackle wetsuit waste

Clean Sailors has announced a partnership with Circular Flow that expands the scope of its ReSail platform to include the collection and reuse of wetsuits and other neoprene equipment, alongside end-of-life sails.

UK-based Circular Flow collects and repurposes neoprene, converting discarded wetsuits into new products and materials.

ReSail by Clean Sailors is a digital platform that identifies drop-off locations where retired sails can be repurposed. The platform was first developed to help users find organisations and businesses that accept sail materials for reuse, at a time when formal recycling infrastructure for complex sail textiles remains limited. In many cases, old sails can be repurposed into ‘new’ sails for smaller boats, and can also be turned into everyday items such as bags, jackets, canvas and other lifestyle goods.

Under the new partnership, ReSail users will also be able to access a network of wetsuit and neoprene collection points operated by Circular Flow. The organisation focuses on the collection, reuse and repurposing of neoprene, a material widely used in watersports equipment that can be difficult to recycle.

“This partnership is a natural evolution of what ReSail was built to achieve,” says Holly Manvell, founder of Clean Sailors. “Sailors care deeply about the oceans they depend on, but too often lack practical options when it comes to disposing of materials like sails and wetsuits. By teaming up with our friends at Circular Flow, we’re removing those barriers, making it easier to find information thereby empowering watersporters to make more sustainable choices.

“I have deep respect for the Circular Flow team who, like Clean Sailors, are working hard to bring some of the biggest yet-to-be-addressed waste and pollution issues in our ocean-centred industries to the fore.”

Circular Flow estimates that around 18,000 tonnes of neoprene enter landfill globally each year and, when discarded, the material can release chemicals and microplastics into the environment. Circular Flow is also working with wetsuit manufacturers and watersports organisations, including PADI, on initiatives related to neoprene recovery and reuse.

It has been estimated that 75 per cent of wetsuits are being thrown away when they could easily be repaired.

“Neoprene waste is a growing global issue, and collaboration is key to solving it,” says Peter Palmer from Circular Flow. “Partnering with Clean Sailors allows us to reach a highly-engaged community that is already motivated to protect the ocean, providing a first-time solution for end-of-life neoprene. Together, we’re making circularity more accessible and actionable.”

More information about the neoprene recycling programme is available on ReSail’s website.