Hasta La Ideas

Innovative design uses discarded coconut husks to make lighter, stronger models

As the latest innovation in sustainable surfboard production, Global Surf Industries‘ Coco Mat Technology employs coconut husk fibers to reduce both board weight and harmful chemicals used in processing and manufacturing. Weighing between three and four pounds lighter than traditional epoxy boards, the strength-to-weight ratio of the Coco Mat boards supports their claim as the world’s lightest, strongest and therefore fastest surfboards currently on the market.

The production process for Coco Mat surfboards uses discarded fibers gathered from local self-sustaining crops near the manufacturing facility, making the production process significantly more environmentally sound than the methods to make traditional epoxy models. The readily available husk fibers only require minimal processing before being randomly arranged between layers of fiberglass, an innovative technique that lends each board a unique look and, more importantly, reinforces the fiberglass laminate.

The agile, loose-riding boards include the small fish, which at just 6’4″ makes an ideal board for less than ideal conditions. Plus, the board’s squat shape helps it retain stability, which would otherwise be lost with extra length.

As the boards grow in size the weight differential increases as well, with the Coco Mat stand-up paddle boards and longboards weighing in four pounds lighter than traditional epoxy models. Keep an eye out online and in specialty shops for the NSP Coco Mat boards‘s March 2012 release.

Another innovation from Global Surf Industries is the foamtop Albacore, an update on the Seaglass Project Tuna. Available in two sizes under 5’6″ the finless surfboards are an ideal learning tool for kids and adults, even in sloppy, small-wave conditions. Usually only found on massive rental longboards, the foamtop design is added to the super short board for a fun, safer ride. Look for the Albacore in select shops and online April 2012 where it will retail for under $275.

For other innovative uses of discarded coconut fibers on CH check out Homeschool Outerwear.

Swiss Solar Innovation

The next level in bag design: integrated solar panel for charging all your gizmos and gadgets, and it’s made of reclaimed sailcloth or sunshades. Read more or visit the Sakku Solar Bags site.

The Detroit Auto Show is over, but open to the public until January 24th. Get the Green re-cap of this years event over at Treehugger. Find out who’s leading the pack and who needs some work.

London’s tap water is 500 times cheaper than bottled water, healthier for the environment, and consistently rated one of the best in terms of it’s taste. So why are city dwellers still buying the more expensive, CO2 emitting alternative? London On Tap is a unique collaboration between UK’s biggest water company, Thames Water, and the Mayor of London to promote London’s drinking water through restaurants, bars and hotels.

Industrial designer, Neil Barron designed the chic container above and will be offered in four colours to bars and hotels at a minimal price, with all profits going to WaterAid.