Rope Recycling Program
Climb On Equipment is happy to announce a rope recycling partnership with Sterling Ropes. We will accept your old and retired dynamic ropes in-store and send them off for recycling.
We accept all dynamic climbing ropes used for rock or ice climbing that are made of Nylon 6 or Nylon 66. Please ensure that they are coiled (and not flaked). Please drop them into the Sterling Rope Monster Box found in our Squamish store. You do not need to clean your rope!
What is the Rope Recycling Program?
In 2008, Sterling initiated the first dynamic rope recycling program in the USA which has now been expanded into Canada, where they take back old, used dynamic ropes - no matter who made them! Sterling works with local artists or recycling partners to give your old ropes new life.
Why should you recycle your dynamic rope?
Nylon is plastic and doesn’t break down easily. Recycling keeps it out of a landfill.
Recycling uses less petroleum-based products by reusing existing materials.
This gives your old rope new life in non-life safety purposes like dog leashes, bag handles, straps, and more.
What ropes qualify?
At this time, Sterling is only recycling dynamic climbing ropes. All dynamic climbing ropes used for rock, or ice climbing are made of Nylon 6 or Nylon 66.
Unfortunately, Sterling cannot accept non-nylon ropes like polyester static ropes, polyester semi-static (low elongation) ropes, marine or hemp ropes or ropes made of mixed materials. They also cannot receive other PPE like harnesses, slings, anchors, or hardware. Due to the current process, receiving mixed ropes or materials would ruin the entire recycling batch.
How do I send my used rope back?
Coil your rope in a butterfly coil or something similar (bounding the rope with a strap is acceptable). Simply bring your coiled rope to the Squamish Climb On Equipment store, located at 37873 Cleveland Avenue. Just look for the Sterling Rope Monster Box (as pictured above).
How does Sterling recycle the rope?
When Sterling receives the ropes back from its participating partners, they collect them and then ship them to a recycling partner in Toronto, ON Canada. They are then pelletized and turned into toys, carpet fiber, etc. in order to keep them out of the landfill.
