Revolutionizing the Wetsuit Industry
with a Sustainable Ethos

n recent years, global consciousness has shifted towards sustainability, with businesses increasingly seeking innovative ways to minimize their ecological footprint and contribute positively to the planet. Mahulu has emerged as a beacon of innovation within the wetsuit industry. Our mission is clear: to create wetsuits that are both high performance and environmentally sound. At the heart of the Mahulu ethos is a commitment to a virtuous cycle of sustainability. 

In this blog, we’ll explore how we go beyond just wetsuit fabrication to encompass a broader ethos of environmental regeneration. We’ll explore each aspect: coral reef restoration, biodegradable wetsuits, and our repurposing program, making Mahulu truly circular.

CORAL REEF RESTORATION

Coral reefs are often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, and for good reason. These vibrant, underwater ecosystems play a crucial role in supporting marine biodiversity, protecting coastlines, and sustaining the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, coral reefs worldwide face numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, habitat destruction and overfishing.

The Importance of Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots that house a myriad of species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. They provide habitat and shelter for countless marine organisms, including fish, mollusks, and sponges. Additionally, coral reefs are vital for coastal protection, because they reduce the impact of storms and provide a natural barrier against erosion. These ecosystems also support the tourism and fishing industries, contributing significantly to local economies.

Mahulu’s commitment to Coral Reef Restoration 

At Mahulu, we recognize the vital and crucial role that coral reefs play in our oceans’ health and biodiversity. To address the damage caused by climate change and human activity, we have pledged 2% of all sales to coral reef regeneration work around the world. We will always be committed to the oceans we love.

BIODEGRADABLE WETSUITS

As our awareness of environmental issues grows, so does our responsibility to make sustainable choices in our lives, especially when it comes to our favorite water sports. At the heart of Mahulu’s ethos is the development of biodegradable wetsuits. Our eco-foam wetsuits are made of biodegradable materials that break down naturally without harming the environment, unlike traditional, petroleum-based neoprene wetsuits. This groundbreaking approach to wetsuit production sets a new industry standard for sustainability. 

Environmental Issues with Traditional Wetsuits

Traditional wetsuits are predominantly made from non-biodegradable materials, primarily neoprene, a synthetic rubber derived from petroleum. Although neoprene is excellent for insulating and keeping the wearer warm in cold waters, its production poses significant environmental problems. The production of neoprene involves the use of toxic chemicals, posing health risks to both manufacturers and users.

Mahulu’s Biodegradable Wetsuits: The Innovation

Mahulu’s commitment to sustainability led to our interest in biodegradable wetsuits. We utilize cutting-edge natural materials such as oyster shells, sugar cane, natural rubber and non-edible plant oil to create our wetsuits. These materials break down naturally, minimizing their environmental impact. Another key feature of Mahulu’s wetsuits are their ability to biodegrade over time, reducing the burden of neoprene waste on the planet.

Mahulu’s Eco Ethos:

Mahulu biodegradable wetsuits are not simply products – they are a reflection of our company’s core values, first and foremost our commitment to sustainability. By choosing one of Mahulu’s biodegradable wetsuits, you’re not only investing in a high-quality suit but also transforming from a consumer to a regenerator. In other words, you become part of Mahulu’s sustainable, circular narrative.

THE ESSENCE OF THE MAHULU REPURPOSING PROGRAM

Mahulu’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with the sale of our wetsuits. We understand that even sustainable wetsuits have a limited lifespan. To address this issue, we launched a repurposing program that encourages customers to return their old wetsuits for recycling. This initiative minimizes waste and ensures that materials are repurposed.

Encouraging Customer Participation

Mahulu recognizes that sustainability is a collective effort. When customers purchase a new wetsuit from Mahulu, they’re actively encouraged to participate in the repurposing program. Customers are given the option to return their old wetsuits to Mahulu instead of disposing of them, which takes the hassle out of disposal and ensures that these wetsuits won’t end up in landfill. We always offer a discount on first-time wetsuit orders, because every contribution to sustainability counts.

Minimizing Waste and Promoting Sustainability 

The heart of Mahulu’s repurposing program lies in a virtuous cycle of commerce. Instead of sending wetsuits to landfill, they are given a second life, reducing the demand for virgin materials and lowering the overall carbon footprint associated with the disposal of old wetsuits.  

Our three-fold virtuous cycle exemplifies a comprehensive approach to sustainability in the wetsuit industry. By actively engaging in coral reef restoration, producing biodegradable wetsuits and implementing a repurposing program, Mahulu demonstrates its commitment to an ecological ethos that goes beyond wetsuit fabrication. Our holistic approach encompasses not only sustainable production but also environmental conservation. We hope to remind consumers that it’s possible to ride the waves while leaving a positive footprint on our planet’s fragile ecosystems.