There are some amazing, groundbreaking innovations happening in the sustainability world, and as surf enthusiasts, this one got us extra excited!

Through a collaboration between Aussie surf legend and Surf Draft founder Josh Kerr, renewable energy company ACCIONA, and board shaper Dane Hamilton, the end of one product’s life became the start of another—culminating in the world’s first surfboard crafted entirely from decommissioned wind turbine blades.

Yep, you read that right, surfing on old wind turbines. This might just be the coolest kind of upcycling we’ve ever seen.

Wind Turbines End-of-Life Challenge

Wind turbines can be an incredible source of clean, renewable power, helping reduce our carbon footprint and safeguard the planet. Built from fibreglass and resin, these blades can generate electricity for around two decades before they need to retire—which is where things get tricky. An estimated 43 million tonnes of wind turbine blades could be discarded globally by 2050, often winding up in landfills or incinerators. It’s a tough reality for technology designed to benefit the Earth, but this challenge also sparks new opportunities for innovation—like finding creative ways to give these blades a second life.

Why This Innovation Matters More Than You Think

Thanks to a wild mix of vision, science, and salty ocean air, Kerr and his team have shown the world that these massive, unwieldy blades can be turned into high-performance boards. Think of it as going from “wind to wave,” all in one sustainable swoop. Honestly, we’re blown away.

What’s even better? This isn’t just a one-off innovation. The project’s goal is to inspire industries around the globe to look at waste differently and push for circularity wherever possible. 

Innovation with a Splash of Aussie Spirit

The whole process involved slicing, shaping, and transforming the rigid blade material into something smooth enough to surf on—a true feat of engineering and good Aussie ingenuity. 

This fresh idea gives old materials a second spin—literally. It's not just about avoiding landfills, it’s about rethinking how we design, consume, and innovate. And Kerr’s surf boards are fully functional, tested in Byron Bay’s waves!

Hope Rides the Wave

At Go For Zero, we live for this kind of forward-thinking innovation. It aligns perfectly with our mission to reduce waste, embrace circular design, and support those taking big, bold steps towards a greener tomorrow. Because we believe that every little action, no matter how small or surfboard-shaped, makes a difference.

If you loved this story, find more uplifting updates in our Happy Earth News Blog page!

Lots of love,

Ellie x