Kayaks: Recycled Plastic Proportion And Its Impact

Kayaks are often made from plastic, and some companies are now manufacturing kayaks made from recycled plastic. For example, the Reprisal kayak by Osiris Outdoor is made from 60 pounds of recycled Polyethylene plastic. Other companies such as Odyssey Innovation and Keep Britain Tidy are also making kayaks from recycled marine plastic and plastic removed from the ocean by local fishing boats. While recycling and reusing materials is standard practice among boat and gear manufacturers, the amount of recycled plastic in a kayak can vary depending on the brand and model.

Kayak manufacturers that use recycled plastic

The use of recycled plastic in kayak manufacturing is an innovative approach to reducing plastic waste and creating sustainable products. Here are some kayak manufacturers that are leading the way in this field:

Osiris Outdoor

Osiris Outdoor, co-founded by Robert Turner and Wes Smith, designed the Reprisal, a sit-on-top kayak made from more than 60 pounds of recycled polyethylene plastic. The kayak underwent strength and impact tests, demonstrating its durability and performance comparable to non-recycled kayaks. The company successfully raised $20,000 through a Kickstarter campaign to bring the Reprisal to market, with the first manufacturing round delivering kayaks in July. The co-founders plan to expand their kayak collection and explore other outdoor sporting goods made from recycled plastic.

Odyssey Innovation

Odyssey Innovation, founded by Rob Thompson, collects discarded plastic from oceans and beaches, as well as used fishing nets, to create kayaks made from recycled marine plastic. The company collaborates with Palm Equipment, a leading kayak manufacturer, to produce one- and two-seat kayaks. Odyssey Innovation's basic model kayak is priced at $600, and they also utilize their kayaks to collect more ocean plastic, contributing to their sustainable mission.

Mackereth's Venture Kayaks

Since 2012, Mackereth's Venture Kayaks has incorporated recycled plastic from their own scrap and from second-hand kayak scrapage schemes, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and closing the loop in their waste cycle.

These kayak manufacturers are pioneers in the use of recycled plastic, not only creating durable and functional kayaks but also contributing to the reduction of plastic waste and promoting environmental awareness.

The recyclability of kayaks

Plastic kayaks, typically made from polyethylene resins through a process called rotomolding, are highly recyclable. This manufacturing technique involves heating and rotating a mold filled with polyethylene pellets until they spread evenly and form the desired shape. The good news is that rotomolded polyethylene kayaks can be easily recycled, and some manufacturers, like Perception, are taking steps to recycle and repurpose old kayaks.

However, it is important to note that not all plastic kayaks are created equal when it comes to recyclability. Some kayaks are made from mixed or composite materials, such as Royalex, which combines different types of plastic, making them challenging to recycle. In such cases, reusing or repurposing the kayak, as seen with the canoe-shaped flower beds mentioned in one source, might be a more feasible option.

To ensure proper disposal and recycling of kayaks, several junk removal companies, such as LoadUp, offer specialized services. They work to keep kayaks and other outdoor equipment out of landfills by recycling or donating them whenever possible. Additionally, some companies are going beyond recycling by creating kayaks made from recycled plastic. Osiris Outdoor, for instance, has designed a kayak made from 60 pounds of recycled polyethylene plastic, contributing to a more sustainable outdoor sporting goods industry.

While the recyclability of kayaks is a positive step towards environmental sustainability, it is just one piece of the puzzle. As mentioned in one source, reducing plastic waste in the first place is crucial. This can be achieved by minimizing the use of single-use plastics and supporting companies that utilize recycled materials in their products. By combining responsible consumption with effective recycling practices, we can make a more significant impact in preserving our planet for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.

The demand for recycled kayaks

The Reprisal kayak by Osiris Outdoor is not an isolated example of the demand for recycled kayaks. Other companies, such as Johnson Outdoors, Necky Kayaks, Old Town Canoes, and Walden Kayaks, have also introduced kayaks made from recycled materials. For instance, the Manitou 13 Recycled by Necky Kayaks is constructed from waste plastic generated during the manufacturing of other kayaks, and Walden Kayaks builds its boats from recycled HDPE plastic sourced from soda and milk bottles. These companies are responding to consumers' increasing preference for environmentally friendly products, recognising that traditional kayaks made from non-recycled plastics contribute to the planet's growing waste problem.

Additionally, the demand for recycled kayaks is influenced by the growing awareness of plastic pollution, particularly in marine environments. Some entrepreneurs, like Rob Thompson of Cornwall, England, have taken it upon themselves to address this issue. Rob's eureka moment came during a litter-picking event, where he realised he could create kayaks from the collected marine plastic. This initiative led to the development of the world's first prototype marine plastic recycled kayak in collaboration with Palm Equipment, a leading kayak manufacturer. By utilising recycled materials, Rob's company, Odyssey Innovation Ltd., is tackling marine plastic pollution and offering consumers a sustainable alternative to traditional kayaks.

The performance of recycled kayaks

For instance, the Reprisal kayak by Osiris Outdoor is made from more than 60 pounds of recycled polyethylene plastic. It underwent strength and impact tests at NC State's Materials Science and Engineering labs, where it performed as well as, or better than, kayaks made from non-recycled plastic. This kayak is designed to appeal to a wide range of kayakers and is a quality, modern, and sustainable product.

Mackereth's Venture Kayaks provide another example of strong performance in recycled kayaks. Since 2012, they have incorporated recycled plastic from their own scrap and from second-hand kayak scrapage schemes. This initiative effectively closed the loop in their waste cycle, demonstrating environmental responsibility without compromising on performance.

In addition to these commercial ventures, the Ocean Plastic Recycled Kayak Project has also made significant strides in this area. Rob Thompson, the founder of Odyssey Innovation Ltd., worked with various organisations to develop a recycled material suitable for kayak manufacturing. In January 2018, they produced the world's first prototype marine plastic recycled kayak, receiving recognition for their contribution to sustainability. Bureo, a start-up founded by three North American surfers, is also working to keep discarded fishing nets out of the ocean by sorting, cleaning, and cutting them for potential use in kayak manufacturing.

Overall, recycled kayaks offer comparable or enhanced performance while contributing to a more sustainable future. With strength, impact resistance, and modern designs, these kayaks are well-suited to a variety of kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts. The development and performance of recycled kayaks challenge the notion that eco-friendly products must compromise on functionality, providing an exciting option for environmentally conscious consumers.

The cost of recycled kayaks

The cost of a kayak varies depending on its style, construction, and features. Basic recreational and fishing kayaks sold at box stores like Walmart and Costco are among the cheapest on the market, often priced at $500 or less. However, these entry-level kayaks have limited performance, features, and intended use, with less comfortable seating and back support.

Sporting goods and outdoor store kayaks sold at places like Dunham's Sports, Bass Pro, and Dick's Sporting Goods typically range from $500 to $1,000. These kayaks are still recreational and fishing models meant for calm, sheltered waters, but the higher price tag brings greater comfort and more convenient features, such as ergonomic carry handles. This price range also includes heavy plastic kayaks that can be challenging to transport and store.

For those seeking an enhanced paddling experience and willing to invest more, the average cost of a day touring kayak is about $1,500. These 12- to 15-foot kayaks are sold at outdoor stores with paddling departments, such as REI or MEC. At this price point, you can expect improved performance, comfort, and safety features, making them ideal for longer distances.

The material and lightness of a day touring kayak significantly impact its price. For example, a plastic day touring kayak typically costs around $1,200. In contrast, a top-of-the-line composite day touring kayak constructed from fiberglass, ultralight aramid, or carbon fiber can exceed $3,000. Dedicated fishing kayaks also vary in price, with sit-on-top models with angler-specific features generally ranging from $1,000 to $2,000.

When it comes to recycled kayaks, companies like Odyssey Innovation and Osiris Outdoor are leading the way. Rob Thompson, the founder of Odyssey Innovation, creates kayaks from recycled marine plastic, including discarded fishing nets and plastic collected from oceans and beaches. These kayaks are sold for a small profit, with the price depending on the specific model and features. Similarly, Osiris Outdoor offers a sit-on-top kayak made from 60 pounds of recycled Polyethylene plastic, retailing for $20,000.

It's important to note that the cost of a kayak is not just a financial consideration but also an environmental one. By choosing a recycled kayak, you're supporting sustainable practices and helping to reduce plastic waste. Additionally, proper kayak disposal services, such as those offered by LoadUp, ensure that kayaks are recycled, donated, or disposed of in an eco-friendly manner, further contributing to a greener planet.

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