Surfing Circles

: circular economy principles in the water sports wear sector : a study based on European wetsuit companies

Abstract

This dissertation examines how water sports wear companies can implement circular economy principles. To answer the research question, I adopted a qualitative research approach, utilized the ReSolve framework and conducted a comparative case study. I studied five wetsuit companies, operating on the European market and striving to implement sustainability into theircore business strategy. Wetsuit brands face challenges and tensions in implementing full circular systems as recycling old wetsuit material into new fully-functioning wetsuits is not possible yet. The findings show that brands are individually responsible in implementingprinciples working towards circularity. The degree of engagement in establishing a product loop varies throughout the industry, as some brands lack solutions, where others have already established counteractions. This reveals potential to learn and grow from each other. However, the sector puts great effort into innovating sustainable methods and creating a positive impact even through small gestures - for instance by innovating alternative wetsuit components, usingrenewable energy sources, decreasing waste during the supply chain and establishing recycling mechanisms to turn old wetsuit material into products such as yoga mats, shoes or mulch mats for trees. Moreover, brands as well take actions on a socio-economic level by donating or supporting various projects. Generally seen, the water sports wear industry operates encouragingly on this matter, inviting other industries to take an example and follow.

Date of Award	4 Jul 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Laure Leglise (Supervisor)