Bottling it
Sunreef is integrating recycled plastic bottles into the superstructures of its yachts.
26 April 2024
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Polish shipyard Sunreef Yachts has revealed details of a new initiative that integrates recycled plastics into the production of its yachts.
The shipyard reports its research and development team is integrating recycled PET bottles into the production process for the composite superstructures of the yachts.
Sunreef says this innovative use of structural foam, composed of up to 100 percent recycled PET materials, represents a ‘significant stride’ toward more eco-conscious yacht construction.
Disposable water and beverage bottles are generally made of a plastic known as PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate). The empty bottles become PET waste after use. In the recycling industry, this is called ‘post-consumer PET.’
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The project comes under the umbrella of Sunreef Yachts Eco, Sunreef’s conceptual approach to yachting that aims to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability across all aspects of the yachting experience.
Sunreef says the recycled thermoplastic core of the material offers numerous benefits, including high resistance to process temperatures, exceptional chemical resistance, strong adhesion and mechanical properties.
Crucially, it is fully recyclable, aligning with Sunreef Yachts Eco’s commitment to sustainability.
The construction of an 80-foot sailing catamaran requires approximately 2.4 tons of this foam core, equivalent to recycling around 600,000 PET bottles.
Last year, Sunreef Yachts Eco began implementing natural fibre composites (NFC), using flax fibre paired with bio-based or recyclable resin to create solid and reliable natural composites.
Sunreef says that, following the Natural Fiber Composite, utilising recycled PET materials represent another milestone in its ongoing efforts to redefine the standards of environmentally responsible yacht construction.
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