Neoprene and sustainability: a pending challenge.

Neoprene has become an inseparable companion for divers, surfers, and water sports enthusiasts. Thanks to it, we can dive into cold waters, explore the seabed, and enjoy the freedom of the sea. But behind this material lies a lesser-known side.

The Hidden Side of Neoprene

Traditional neoprene comes from petroleum, and its manufacture has a significant environmental impact: intensive energy consumption, CO₂ emissions, the release of microplastics, and waste that is difficult to recycle.

Furthermore, recycling it is very costly, both technically and economically, which means that its final destination is usually incineration.

Greener Alternatives

More and more brands are opting for sustainable options such as Yulex (natural rubber), recycled neoprene, or innovative materials based on limestone, coconut fibers, or even oyster shells, although the reality is that these initiatives are still not widely used and come at a very high price, making them unaffordable for all divers.

Even so, these advances have opened a line of work that is expected to soon popularize these new materials, facilitating their subsequent recycling and reducing the carbon footprint of traditional equipment.

Your role

Although the present has many areas to improve, as a user, you can act today with conscious consumption.

- Choose wetsuits made with sustainable materials or guaranteed responsible manufacturing.

- Participate in neoprene recycling programs or donate your equipment in good condition for reuse.

- Maintain your equipment properly: rinse it with fresh water, dry it in the shade, store it during the off-season by hanging it up or rolling it up to avoid creases, etc.

- Repair minor damage and lubricate zippers properly.

Remember that the least polluting material is the one that isn't produced. Extending the lifespan of your wetsuit is the best way to avoid waste.

A small gesture, a big impact

Every time you choose a sustainable wetsuit, reuse, or care for your equipment, you are protecting the ocean. Diving and respect for the sea can go hand in hand: all it takes is awareness and the desire to do better.

The future of the seabed depends on many things, but also on small, everyday gestures. And your wetsuit can be the starting point.