From the Landes to the Ocean
A surfboard made of local resources from south-western France.
The Atlantic coast of south west France is known not only for its beach breaks and major surf competitions, but also for its rich natural resources. Once defined by sheep farming in inhospitable wetlands, the region later transformed into a vast pine forest exploited for timber and resin, shifting local livelihoods away from pastoral traditions.
This project celebrates the culture and heritage of south west France through the development of a surfboard made entirely from local materials. Using wool fibres and pine resin varnish, it proposes an alternative to toxic, non-recyclable composites and challenges the lack of transparency in sports equipment production.
The surfboard stands as a testament to bioregionalism, highlighting the value of local resources and craftsmanship in shaping more sustainable material practices.
In collaboration with Carbon Cell.
Lauren Michel
lauren.maelle.ml@gmail.com