FACTS

Skateboarders at Ralph's kate parkTHE REAL FACTS

  • Skateboarding is a multi-billion dollar industry.
  • Skateboarding participation reached 6.46 million in 2016.
  • There are approximately 5,000 skateshops in the U.S.
  • Most skateshops accumulate at least 50 broken boards per month.

THE HARD FACTS

  • Close to 2 million broken skateboard decks go to landfills each year.
  • Most large skateboard manufacturers cut upwards of 30,000 boards per month, which leaves four 3-yard bins of wood waste per day.
  • Because most of the wood contains pigment, glues and grip tape, it can release hazardous chemicals into the air when burned for energy and is considered a major fire hazard in California.
  • A harsh reality for a lot of manufacturers and skateshops is that sending waste to landfills is far less expensive than finding ways to recycle it.

THE GOOD NEWS

  • With the help of participating shops, we’ve saved over 75,000 boards since 2010.
  • Participating shops tend to see an increase in customer traffic after joining I Ride I Recycle.
  • I Ride I Recycle sponsors recycling contests at participating shops, which translates into more foot traffic and an increase in revenue.
  • Participating shops gain a direct opportunity to support their community.
  • By giving underprivileged kids used skateboards, they have a chance to learn a new skill the provides them a healthy physical outlet and instills important character traits that last a lifetime.
  • Because of I Ride I Recycle, the Art of Board brand has been able to donate over $30,000 to Tony Hawk’s Stand Up for Skateparks initiative.