The Environmental Impact of Tennis Balls

Each year, the United States discards around 125 million tennis balls, contributing to significant waste that produces methane and takes centuries to decompose in landfills. The recycling of tennis balls has not been a common practice until recently, with many ending up in trash during events like the US Open, which uses approximately 70,000 balls annually. This growing issue has prompted the development of recycling programs, turning attention to the potential for sustainable practices within the sport. The podcast highlights the importance of addressing this overlooked environmental concern as a means to promote sustainability in athletic equipment.