Overview

FCS is proud to announce Project Green Flex; an initiative to introduce a new fin to the surfing industry made from post-consumer material. The collaborative effort between FCS and its manufacturing partners has seen the development of a new fin material that maintains the strength and flex properties equal to its revolutionary Glass Flex material, yet has a minimal impact on the environment.

The prerequisite for developing the new material was that it had to have minimal environmental impact and still perform to the same standards as the Glass Flex material. The new material is different because it derives all of its resin from other materials that would otherwise become landfill.

Used carpet tiles, made by the world leader in modular floor tiling InterfaceFLOR, are recycled by stripping the nylon fibre from the tile. This material is then sent to a specialist composite maker who formulates the new material by mixing the fibre with fibreglass. The new composite is then given to C.Brewer to mould FCS fins. The final product is then distributed via FCS to retailers and surfboard manufactures to be used by surfers around the world. (See diagram below)

Surf Hardware International strongly believes that every business must do what they can to minimise the negative impact of their products and production practices on the planet. Project Green Flex is the first step in the company’s movement towards producing environmentally conscious products.

Project Green Flex falls under the umbrella of SHI’s Environmental Policy which focuses on a broader ‘Green’ initiative. The policy states the company’s intentions, commitment and principles in the area of environmental management and conservation. SHI is committed to the improvement of environmental performance and creating products and programs with design & sustainable sourcing, carbon management and the use of ethical supply chains.

The next step for Project Green Flex is to recruit the talents of the surfing industry during the final testing phase. Although initial tests with some of the FCS marquee team riders has returned positive results, Green Flex fin samples will be distributed to gather further feedback from a broader audience. Once the feedback has been collected and verified the fins will immediately hit the market.