CircHelmet – Circular business opportunities for ski helmets

A large proportion of the ski helmets sold in Sweden are used by ski resorts around the country and rented out as part of a complete set of ski equipment to the resorts' guests. When the helmets are considered worn out, they are sent for incineration. However, the sports industry, and especially rental-based businesses, are well placed to capitalise on the opportunities of circular business models as they have smooth, defined and easily accessible product flows. By taking a holistic approach to business models, product design, digital condition assessments, material circulation and rental processes, this project investigated the possibilities for more circular flows of ski helmets. 

The first part of the project focused on investigating opportunities to support circular flows by determining the condition of used helmets through digital condition assessments or by recycling helmets. The second part of the project examined the current helmet rental at Skistar's facilities and explored opportunities to increase the lifespan and utilisation rate of helmets and contribute to increased circular flows. A test to determine the impact of a ski helmet designed to facilitate maintenance and repair was conducted together with helmet supplier Disentis. In addition, the project also explored how a concept helmet can be designed to further increase longevity and contribute to circular flows through changing business models and rental processes. 

The project has contributed to increased knowledge of the economic and environmental benefits of different circular opportunities, and provided examples of how helmets can be designed for extended lifetime, circular flows and circular business models.