An explorative study on sustainable surfboard technology: from state-of-the-art literature to interdisciplinary integration

• Main Authors: Niko Nagengast, Clara Usma-Mansfield, Franz Konstantin Fuss
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Subjects: 15th International Conference on the Engineering of Sport; Engineering of Sport 15; ISEA 2024; Sustainability
• DOI: 10.17028/rd.lboro.27053011.v1

Engineering of Sport 15 - Proceedings from the 15th International Conference on the Engineering of Sport (ISEA 2024) Surfing is often associated with a deep connection to nature and ecological empathy. In reality, long journeys in search of the best surfing spots, the significant resource demands of emerging wave parks and petroleum-based surfing equipment such as wetsuits, fins and surfboards distort this utopian view. In most cases, the commonly used technical approach is based on the lifetime experience and knowledge of rare board shaper specialists, as well as trial and error. Although various bio-based or recyclable components are currently the lever of choice, science and industry are far from developing comprehensive solutions. This study considers this challenge as an important opportunity to accelerate sustainable surfboard technology and provides an overview of the latest research in the implementation of sustainable materials technology, surfboard design, manufacturing technologies, environmental assessment and end-of-life options. This article presents the results of an integrative literature search using the Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science databases.