Skateboards aren’t exactly the first thing that comes to mind when you think of commercial fishing nets, but then again, Bureo Skateboards aren’t exactly your typical board makers. Based in The Ventura, CA, Bureo runs an innovative recycling program, partnering with fishing communities in Chile to keep discarded fishing nets out of the ocean. They then transform these nets into a line of artfully durable skateboards (and some pretty badass Jenga sets).   

Plastic pollution in our oceans is a huge global challenge. Discarded fishing nets make up around 10% of this pollution, taking a heavy toll on marine life. Along with collecting nets, Bureo provides financial support to local Chilean fishing communities. To date, Bureo’s program has recycled over 80,000KG of discarded materials.

We’re giving Bureo a shout out here because, like us at Arvin, they’re on a mission to create high-quality, beautifully designed gear while helping make the world a cleaner, healthier place. We had the pleasure of meeting up with some of the Bureo team in Vancouver back in the summer and look forward to future collaborations. Socks off to Bureo.

Be sure to check the boys out and follow their progress as they shape the way we think about our oceans. 

December 13, 2017 — Harry Fricker