SPOTLIGHT: Rory of Ocean Republic in Cornwall, UK
Whilst most materials used for sailing are built to withstand some of the toughest conditions on our plant including UV light, saltwater and wind, they don’t last forever, and they all have a time limit on their initial use. Currently, for example, 97% of all sails end up in landfill.
In our 'Spotlight' series, we'll speak with some of the people and teams working to give sails a second life.
In our first edition, we speak to Rory McKellar, founder of Ocean Republic.
Tell us about your ReSail project - how did you get started?
I had an old A-Symmetric sail myself that was too big for my boat and wasn’t suitable to be re-cut. It wasn’t worth any money and I couldn’t bare to through it away so I decided to made some bean bags with it because my boat is steel and therefore hard and cold. It was a great idea and made helming that much easier… and things led form there.
What materials do you most look for, why this in particular?
We look for all kinds of sails, from lightweight Nylon Spinnakers to Dacron, Aramid and Carbon sails. All can be used for something. Old lines are also useful too.
What has been your proudest achievement so far?
We are very pleased to work with Waterhaul and make for them reusable beach cleaning bags, this is a great repurposing project and for a good cause too.
Why is it important for you that we give old things new life?
Waste is rubbish!
Where can we find out more about your project?
