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From the pages of our newest print journal, we’re proud to current 4 developments that push the outside industry ahead in optimistic methods.
New life for batteries
Currently, electrical bikes—not automobiles—are the world’s best-selling electrical autos. While e-bikes are nice for lowering emissions, they aren’t with out their very own affect. Like electrical automobiles, they’re powered by lithium-ion batteries which are environmentally intensive to provide (they final two to 5 years). Boulder, Colorado-based FolksForBikes hopes to deal with sustainability issues with a first-of-its-kind, industry-wide battery recycling program.
The nonprofit has collaborated with Call2Recycle to make sure end-of-life batteries are safely collected and correctly recycled, quite than dumped in landfills. “Our goal is to make electric bicycle battery collection and recycling seamless for customers, retailers, and brands,” says Leo Raudys, CEO of Call2Recycle. In November 2021, more than 40 bike suppliers and producers dedicated to help and absolutely fund this system; retailers will be capable of signal on as assortment websites come February, and batteries will begin being recycled in summer season 2022.
Fly excessive
Every severe camper is aware of the frustration of waking as much as a saggy, soggy rainfly. Polyurethane-coated nylon, the industry’s normal materials for tent flies, soaks up water, dries slowly, and is usually made from virgin supplies—dangerous for campers and the surroundings alike. Looking for a resolution, the NEMO crew dreamt up OSMO, a new fabric constructed round a 100-percent recycled nylon/polyester weave that repels water better than conventional flies.
OSMO will debut this 12 months in the model’s Dagger and Hornet Elite tents, which meet flame-retardant requirements with out the inclusion of any nasty toxins like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). “By choosing high-performing recycled yarns and PFAS-free finishes to build OSMO, we’re continuing our commitment to sustainable design for people and the planet,” says NEMO Product Development Manager Gabi Rosenbrien.
Out of this world
For the primary time in 50 years, the U.S. is certain for the moon. Leading the mission is Intuitive Machines, whose Nova-C lander will launch on a SpaceX rocket in early 2022, destined for the lunar south pole. Anticipating the moon’s excessive temperatures—assume -250 to 250°F—researchers regarded to Columbia Sportswear: The firm’s Omni-Heat Infinity thermal-reflective fabric will wrap exterior panels of the Nova-C.
Itself impressed by NASA tech, the distinctive gold metallic foil launched in fall 2021 and at the moment insulates Columbia jackets, hats, and boots whereas nonetheless permitting for breathability. According to Joe Boyle, Columbia model president, “Our Omni-Heat Infinity technology has been tested in freezing temperatures on glaciers in Alaska and Chile, but the moon represents an entirely new frontier.”
Show me the cash
In November 2021, President Biden signed the $1 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act into legislation. “This is the first time a large infrastructure package prioritizes and recognizes the importance of the outdoor economy alongside traditional infrastructure projects,” says Lise Aangeenbrug, govt director at Outdoor Industry Association. “The infrastructure bill is a landmark investment that will benefit people, parks, and public lands and waters across the country.”
A couple of of the finances allocations we are able to count on: $350 million to assemble wildlife-friendly roadway crossings, $250 million to enhance entry to Forest Service lands, $100 million to enhance recreation websites on federal lands, $14.65 billion for estuary restoration and stormwater administration tasks, and $100 million put aside for pure infrastructure options that improve resilience to drought and wildfires.
This story first appeared in the Winter 2022 situation of our print journal. Read the complete situation right here.