Element 6 Evolution and Starboard are shaping the future of watersports with their respective one-design foiling classes, the Switch and X-15 class, while taking the lead to drive meaningful eco-action.
As official builders of Olympic sailing dinghies, Nacra 17 and ILCA, Element 6 Evolution has partnered with Starboard to accelerate eco-action in the watersports industry.
Starboard, renowned for designing the iQFOiL Olympic Windsurfing Class, 5 consecutive SUP connect brand of the year awards, and 15 PWA constructors titles, offers high-quality impact credits through its Plastic Offset Program (POP). POP removes all types of plastic waste within 50 meters of the shoreline on beaches in Myanmar and Thailand. Element 6 Evolution has invested in Starboard’s VERRA verified plastic credit and will continue to contribute to collecting more tonnes of plastic waste on a rolling basis per production of boats.
Beyond waste removal, Starboard’s POP empowers local communities by supporting waste management infrastructure, conducting educational school programs, and offering livelihood workshops. This collaboration reflects the shared values of both Olympic equipment providers, who understand the responsibility to support not just the sport but the ocean that makes it possible.
Recognizing that plastic use cannot be entirely eliminated from their production processes, both companies understand the value of verified plastic credits. These credits allow Element 6 Evolution to take immediate action that is both locally and industrially relevant. POP operates in Chon Buri, Thailand—where Element 6 Evolution is based—making the program directly impactful to the region. The investment in plastic credits supports the essential funding needed for POP’s programs and ensures the project’s continued expansion.
By combining their strengths as Olympic equipment providers, Starboard and Element 6 Evolution set new standards for the future of sailing and watersports. Starboard has been globally recognized for its eco-action, receiving World Sailing’s Sustainability Award and the IOC’s Sport Positive Award. Together, they encourage other brands to join in this important movement for a sustainable future.
John Higham, CCO at Element Six Evolution, describes the company’s new partnership,
“Joining Starboard’s POP is a natural fit for us, as the project directly benefits the region in Thailand where we operate. Rooted in a shared passion for watersports, the POP is dedicated to combating ocean plastic pollution and making a meaningful impact in the local community.
Svein Rasmussen, Starboard CEO and former Olympic Windsurfer, explains the importance of POP,
“Element 6’s collaboration with POP demonstrates the leadership our industry needs. Combining innovation with purpose, making sustainability a key part of the watersports industry.”
Together, Element 6 Evolution and Starboard are demonstrating how sports and business can unite to make a real-world environmental impact.
Join Us In Accelerating Eco Action:
For more information on plastic credits and how you or your company can get involved, please email eco@star-board.com.
About Element 6 Evolution
Element 6 Evolution is a high-tech composite company based in Thailand. Specializing in the production of performance parts for marine, automotive, and aerospace products. An official builder for the Nacra 17 and ILCA Olympic sailing classes, and owner of the Switch one design foiling class.
Instagram @element6evolution
Switch Website: https://www.switchonedesign.com
About Starboard
Since 1994, Starboard, founded by Svein Rasmussen, has been a leading innovator in windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, wingfoiling, and the Olympic windsurf provider. For every board, Starboard picks up the equivalent weight in plastic waste and plants mangroves to offset emissions. Starboard has earned recognition for its commitment to sustainability and positive environmental impact through programs like its Plastic Offset Program.
Learn more about the initiative at Starboard Plastic Offset Program.
Starboard’s website: https://star-board.com/
