We’ve Been Recognised for Sustainability at the Cornwall Sustainability Awards
We are excited to announce that our Preloved Wetsuit Scheme was recognised at the Cornwall Sustainability Awards last Friday. We were runners-up in the Circular Economy category!
The recognition highlights the impact of our Preloved Wetsuit Scheme, a project that would not be possible without key support from SUEZ, Cornwall Council and the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Good Growth Fund. Together, we are helping people access the ocean and making waves for the environment.
A Circular Solution with Positive Impact
Through this scheme, we collect and process donated wetsuits. SUEZ UK handles the first selection, identifying the best-quality suits to send to our Newquay shop. From there, we clean and process the suits to be sold at an affordable price. The initiative has a triple impact:
- Environmental Benefits: By diverting fossil-fuel-based neoprene from landfill, we are reducing waste and conserving resources.
- Accessibility: Affordable wetsuits make the ocean more accessible for people who may not otherwise be able to afford quality gear.
- Charity Support: Proceeds directly support our Surf Therapy programmes, helping children and young people improve their mental health through surfing.
Big Plans for the Future
Thanks to funding from our partners, we’re embarking on exciting new plans for this project. Our shop in Newquay is undergoing a complete redesign, and we are actively exploring ways to expand the initiative. Stay tuned for updates!
A Team Effort Worth Celebrating
Our team members, Ed Connors and Kate Davies proudly represented The Wave Project at the awards. Reflecting on the recognition, Ed said:
“Although I collected the award, I felt like it was on behalf of Kate, who has worked tirelessly processing wetsuits. In all my years handling donated goods, I know it takes a special type of character to work as hard and as passionately as Kate. It sometimes seems like an endless task, and Kate somehow just keeps on going, always with a smile. This award is really also an acknowledgment of her efforts and the important work she is doing.”
Learn more about our Preloved Wetsuit Scheme and how you can get involved here.
The pilot project has been made possible thanks to £116,000 from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, £22,500 from SUEZ and £7,500 from The Wave Project.
