If you’ve been trying to make more sustainable choices—whether that’s swapping to eco-friendly wetsuits, buying gear made from recycled materials, or simply supporting brands that care about the planet—you’re not alone. But this year, new changes in global trade policy might make those choices a little harder.
In April 2025, a fresh round of tariffs hit many imported materials, including some that sustainable brands rely on to keep their products environmentally responsible and affordable. As prices go up, access to sustainable consumer products may shift—raising questions about cost, availability, and how we continue to build a more eco-conscious future.
Here’s what these trade changes could mean for the water sports world and beyond.
Why the Tariffs Matter
The April tariffs target both raw and finished goods, including low-impact materials like limestone-based rubber, recycled fabrics, and water-based adhesives. These are often sourced from global partners with cleaner energy or more sustainable practices. But tariffs can disrupt these carefully built supply chains, pressuring companies to:
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Switch to more carbon-intensive or less sustainable sources
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Cut corners on materials
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Absorb rising costs or pass them on to consumers
For products like sustainable wetsuits, impact vests, and recycled accessories, that creates a domino effect. What was once a lower-impact alternative might now be less accessible—or even more expensive—than traditional options.
The Price of Progress—and Who Gets Left Out
For smaller brands built around sustainability, tariffs force some tough decisions: raise prices, trim margins, or compromise on eco-materials. And while some larger companies may have the flexibility to weather these changes, independent brands are feeling the squeeze.
The real concern is accessibility. As sustainable options become more expensive, they risk becoming exclusive—available only to those who can afford to “shop green.” This undermines the broader movement toward inclusive, widespread environmental responsibility.
As BSR puts it, businesses committed to ethical production now face a balancing act between long-term values and short-term volatility.
A Circular Silver Lining
One positive trend emerging from the pressure: circularity is becoming more than a buzzword.
Wetsuit recycling and downcycling—such as turning retired suits into wallets—are gaining traction as creative ways to reduce demand for new materials while keeping gear out of landfills. Some brands are also leaning into donation programs, resale, and repair-friendly designs, which not only cut costs but also extend the lifecycle of products.
As Kearney notes, brands that embrace circular models are often more resilient to supply chain shocks—like, say, a surprise tariff hike.
Where Do We Go From Here?
Brands committed to sustainability aren’t backing down. Many are rethinking supply chains, investing in recycled materials, or seeking out regional production partners with cleaner operations. And consumers are getting savvier, too—asking better questions about where their gear comes from, what it’s made of, and whether it’s truly built to last.
If you’ve ever asked “how do wetsuits work?” or googled “is neoprene toxic?” now’s the time to dig deeper. From sustainable wetsuit options to circular business models, this is a moment for education, advocacy, and smarter decision-making.
The April 2025 tariffs introduced new hurdles for sustainable businesses—but they also highlight why innovation and accessibility matter more than ever. Whether you’re paddling out for a surf session, diving into open water, or just shopping with the planet in mind, supporting thoughtful, resilient brands like Turtl Project helps keep sustainability within reach.
Turtl Project is on a mission to turn the tide against ocean pollution by revolutionizing wetsuit sustainability and mobilizing global beach cleanups. Learn more here.