[Sydney - NSW] – [17TH March 2025] – Riley Australia, renowned for crafting exquisite balsawood surfboards since 1996, is proud to announce its partnership with Seatrees (formerly Sustainable Surf) and the prestigious Ecoboard Project, achieving the coveted Gold Label certification. This collaboration signifies a significant step forward in promoting sustainable surfboard manufacturing and environmental stewardship.
Riley Balsawood Surfboards has long been committed to minimizing its environmental footprint, striving to produce durable, eco-friendly surfboards that stand the test of time. Their dedication to sustainability aligns perfectly with Seatrees' mission to restore coastal ecosystems and combat climate change.
Seatrees, formerly known as Sustainable Surf, has been a driving force in environmental innovation since 2011. Through their Ecoboard Project, they have set rigorous standards for sustainable surfboard production. Now, joining forces with Riley Balsawood Surfboards, both organizations aim to amplify their impact and educate the surfing community about eco-conscious choices.
A key element of this partnership is Riley's commitment to planting five new trees for every surfboard produced, including Australian Red Cedar and Balsawood trees. This complements Seatrees' extensive reforestation/reoceanation efforts, which include planting mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass, and kelp forests. To date, Seatrees has facilitated the planting of over 4 million trees, embodying their powerful slogan: "The ocean has the power to reverse climate change. Together we can restore coastal ecosystems by planting and protecting Seatrees."
The Gold Label certification, now proudly displayed on Riley Balsawood Surfboards, signifies the highest level of environmental performance within the Ecoboard Project. Riley Balsawood Surfboards is one of only three companies in Australia and the Pacific region to achieve this prestigious recognition who build surfboards. This achievement calls for other companies to also join the mission to help the industry learn, grow, and create a better planet, one board at a time.
“This is a great opportunity to reach more people in every corner of the world because we all need to stand up and do the best we possibly can to keep the world clean for our children,” said Mark Riley, founder of Riley Balsawood Surfboards.
Balsawood, a naturally sustainable material, is central to Riley’s surfboard construction. Balsa trees mature in just four years, absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, and release abundant oxygen. With an average density of 120kg/m3, balsawood offers exceptional versatility, allowing for precise shaping and flex, while retaining its structural integrity. It has been used in wood surfboards for 75 years and continues to improve in quality, becoming lighter, cleaner and more flexible.
The Ecoboard Project is a program of Seatrees, a registered 501(c)3 US Tax Exempt not-for-profit corporation, incorporated in California, and designated by the IRS as a public Charity organization.
Look for the Gold Label on Riley Balsawood Surfboards, a symbol of sustainable surfing and a commitment to a healthier planet.
About Riley Balsawood Surfboards:
Riley Australia has been building high-quality balsawood surfboards since 1996, prioritizing environmental sustainability and craftsmanship.