Score Big for the Planet: TreadLightly Expands Recycling Efforts to Sports Balls!

Welcome back GFZ's!

Remember those shoes you recycle with TreadLightly? Guess what... they now also want your old soccer ball gathering dust in the garage! This game-changing initiative, launched by the Australian Sporting Goods Association, has just expanded its recycling efforts to include sports balls. Yep, your old basketball, tennis ball, or even that deflated footy can now be recycled instead of adding to landfill waste.

Since 2021, TreadLightly has been on a mission to tackle waste in the sports industry, starting with footwear. They have recycled 960,000 pairs so far! Now, with their new Sports Ball program, they’re taking it a step further—recycling every bit of those worn-out balls, from rubber to leather, and turning them into sustainable products like rubber mats and retail flooring. It’s an innovative way to keep those balls bouncing through the recycling loop instead of the landfill.

Before you toss those old sports balls into the recycling bin, though, take a moment to assess their condition. If they’re still in good shape, consider donating them to a local charity or regifting them during the holiday season or for birthdays. A gently used soccer ball could make a great gift for a budding athlete or a welcome addition to a community center.

And if your sports gear is past its prime, don’t fret—TreadLightly has got you covered. Drop off your worn-out balls to participating Rebel stores or sports clubs, that are part of their 937 drop off points. Your old gear will be transformed into valuable recycled materials, helping to reduce waste and support eco-friendly products. 

Thanks for tuning in again this week GFZ's, for more Earth loving stories you can take your pick at so many others here! 

Until next week, much love! 

Ellie xxx