The fundamental principle of zero waste has gained prominence at this year’s WM Phoenix Open. Last year’s event, which drew the largest attendance on the PGA Tour, saw thousands of plastic water bottles recycled. These bottles have now been repurposed into branded shirts prominently displayed and sold at the event’s massive merchandise tent at TPC Scottsdale.
This initiative, led by Peter Millar in collaboration with Repreve, a company specializing in sustainable polyester made from recycled plastic bottles, underscores a broader trend in the golf industry towards eco-friendly practices. While other high-end golf brands also utilize Repreve’s sustainable polyester, Peter Millar’s visible commitment to sustainability highlights WM’s efforts to make the Phoenix Open the world’s largest zero-waste sporting event.
Through this partnership, 27 discarded water bottles from last year’s event have been transformed into sought-after shirts bearing the WM logo. Courtney Wilson, Peter Millar’s director of marketing, expressed how this project has challenged the company to become more sustainable, an initiative crucial for an industry often criticized for its environmental impact.
The design of these special apparel pieces pays homage to the tournament and incorporates elements of the Phoenix area, reflecting the unique identity of the event. The process of turning recycled water bottles into fabric involves multiple steps, from initial sorting to extrusion and texturizing, ensuring the quality and comfort of the final product.
While many fans may not fully grasp the intricacies of this process, the end result signifies a significant achievement for the companies involved, showcasing their commitment to quality, performance, and sustainability in golf fashion. Meredith Boyd, Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer of Repreve’s parent company, emphasizes that recycled materials can meet the highest quality standards, debunking the misconception that recycled products are inferior.