SCUBAPRO Cares - Sustainable Products
Engineering With an Eye on the Environment
In 2012, SCUBAPRO became the first company in diving to introduce X-Foam blend neoprene as part of our ongoing effort to better protect divers and the environment.
SCUBAPRO is also the first to introduce solvent-free Aqua glue in the manufacture of our dive suits. This innovative adhesive has also proven to be better for divers and the environment.
The SCUBAPRO team is proud to be the first to offer X-Foam, solvent-free Aqua glue and more (see below) as part of the company's ongoing efforts to better protect divers and our oceans.
We are also working diligently on providing sustainable packaging, for either long term usage or recycled and recyclable.
X-Foam Neoprene
All SCUBAPRO wetsuits are manufactured from 100 percent pure neoprene made from an exclusive formula called X-Foam, which is made from limestone (not petroleum) neoprene. This means it is completely petroleum-free, which reduces petroleum consumption for future generations. This also makes X-Foam the only neoprene formula that complies with the very strict P.A.H. and REACH test requirements.
P.A.H.s (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) occur in oil, coal and tar deposits, and are also produced as byproducts of fuel-burning, both fossil and biomass. P.A.H.s have been included on the EPA's pollutants priority list since 1976. P.A.H. tests make sure the neoprene is free of the chemical pollutants listed in the regulation.
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) tests for Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC). Both P.A.H. and REACH tests provide a safety standard to protect users and avoid the potential risk for the human body.
The X-Foam production and testing process is very expensive but we feel it's well worth it. At SCUBAPRO, we are proud to be able to offer this neoprene blend in order to better protect the environment.
New Solvent-Free Glue
Once again, SCUBAPRO stands at the forefront of environmental innovation with the development of a new solvent-free glue -- called Aqua glue -- used in the construction of all SCUBAPRO neoprene products (except boots) thicker than 1.5mm. It is universally accepted that water-based adhesives are better for divers, and better for the environment. Aqua glue can reduce 600 grams of solvent per wetsuit, which provides a better environment for workers. SCUBAPRO is first dive industry company to use a non-solvent glue on its products.
Although water-based, Aqua glue is tough as nails -- SCUBAPRO engineers made sure of that with rigorous testing spanning more than 400 hours. So you can be confident that you are not only wearing the most comfortable, durable wetsuit available, it's also more compatible with a healthy environment.
100% Organic Anti-Fog Gel
Another way we've been able to help keep solvents and chemicals out of our oceans is with the development of a 100 percent organic anti-fog gel. Called Scuba Clear, this is a totally formaldehyde-free, clinically tested, biological formulation that won't irritate your eyes or skin, and also won't harm the environment. So now you can keep your mask lenses clear to better enjoy a healthier underwater environment.
Eco-Friendly User Manuals
All new SCUBAPRO user manuals are available as convenient downloads. Also, wetsuit manuals are available printed on recycled paper (the SCUBAPRO Cares logo is displayed on the front cover). Using recycled paper saves energy, water, trees, and helps reduce landfill space. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and is a sustainable, cost-saving resource for making new paper products. By using recycle paper we help protect our valuable natural resources.
Healthier Dive Bag Designs
Most of the bags in SCUBAPRO's dive bag line (except dry bags) are now built with a PU (polyurethane) coating that replaces PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This design advancement not only makes the bags lighter and more durable, it also complies with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) -- a European Union regulation adopted to improve the protection of human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals.