What began as an idea in between matches has, step by step, grown into a nationwide system: together with clubs, partner organizations, and supporters, we collect tennis balls all across Switzerland to recycle them. This shows that sustainable tennis is possible here too.
Expansion of the Collection System
Since the start, we have steadily expanded our collection system. Today, over 200 clubs across Switzerland are already participating – and the number is rising. Balls are collected in standardized collection boxes and containers, and sorted in Bern by our partner BAND, a social enterprise that creates meaningful jobs.
Image: The balls are collected by us and then sorted by the BAND Cooperative
From Waste to a New Product
Some of the balls go to our partner Renewaball in the Netherlands, where they are processed into new, playable balls. Padel balls are already available in our shop, tennis balls can now be pre-ordered and will be ready for delivery in the coming weeks.
We also focus on creative reuse: in our online shop, alongside Renewaballs, you’ll find other products made from old balls – including dog toys and sneakers with recycled soles.
International Projects: Extending the Life of Good Balls
Not all collected balls are unusable – many are still in good condition and too good for the shredder. That’s why we donate a portion to a tennis school in Poland, so that children and young people can train with them free of charge. You’ll soon find more information about this here on our site.
Looking Ahead: Keep Testing, Keep Learning
Even with a functioning system, recycling remains a learning process. We are constantly developing new ideas, testing further solutions, and looking for partners and sponsors to create a financially viable circular economy. Our goal: a system that makes ecological sense, has a social impact, and can last in the long term.