• News • August 4th, 2023
In recent years, the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness has become a major focus across various industries. From fashion to technology, companies are embracing eco-friendly practices and materials to reduce their carbon footprint and promote a healthier planet. The sports industry is no exception to this trend, and one crucial aspect that is often overlooked is sports floorings.
Traditional sports floorings, often made from synthetic materials like PVC, have been widely used for decades, but their environmental impact tends to be higher compared to other alternatives. These materials are not biodegradable and have an energy-intensive production process, resulting in a larger carbon footprint. However, they do tend to have a longer life cycle, meaning they can last a lot longer in high-traffic and heavily used areas without the need to be regularly replaced.
Recognising the need for more sustainable solutions, the sports industry is making strides to develop eco-friendly sports floorings. Manufacturers are using recycled materials like reclaimed rubber, cork and eco polyurethane as alternatives to traditional synthetics, reducing waste while maintaining performance and durability.
Additionally, sports flooring options that use PEFC and FSC certified wood are gaining traction, and promoting responsible forest management practices. These initiatives signify a positive shift towards more sustainable practices in the sports flooring industry.
Sustainable sports floorings can lead to significant long-term cost savings for sports facilities. While some eco-friendly options may have higher upfront costs compared to traditional materials, their exceptional durability and reduced requirement for frequent replacement result in much lower maintenance expenses over time.
Investing in sustainable sports floorings not only benefits the environment but also proves to be a positive financial decision that can enhance a facility's financial sustainability, too.
At Reflex, we are dedicated to promoting sustainability in the sports industry, and have taken significant steps towards ensuring our products have a minimal impact on the environment.
We are proud to hold certifications from both the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These certifications guarantee that the wood we use in our sports flooring products comes from responsibly managed forests that prioritise reforestation and biodiversity conservation. By using certified wood, we contribute to the preservation of forests and support the well-being of local communities.
In conclusion, the question of whether sports floorings are sustainable is an important one for both the sports industry and the environment. While traditional synthetic floorings may come with initial environmental drawbacks, their extended lifespan means they require minimal additional resources over time. Equally, the emergence of sustainable alternatives and the efforts of companies like us using only PEFC and FSC timber offers hope for a greener future for sports.
As consumers, athletes, and facility owners, we have the power to support sustainable practices by making informed choices about the products we use. Together, we can create a more sustainable sporting landscape and play our part in safeguarding the planet for future generations.
Speak to us if you’d like to find out more about our sustainability credentials and find the right flooring solution for you.
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