Most big companies don’t start as the result of a school project. Or if they do it is something like FedEx, which Fred Smith came up with while studying at Yale University, not a project for a fifth grade class. But that is exactly how Phoenix residents Devin and Lisa Kelley founded Recycled Skateboards International (RSI) after creating a birdhouse from recycled – upcycled – skateboards.
Now the Kelleys are in business recycling/upcycling old skateboard decks and other parts.
“RSI partners with skateboard shops all over the US to keep skateboard decks out of landfills,” Devin Kelley said in a press release. “As skateboarders, we have made a commitment to reduce our carbon footprint by repurposing these old decks. We ride them, so we should recycle them.”
The decks are turned into one of a kind jewelry and accessories, but still blend the authentic style of skateboard art. And it is a good way to keep those old decks out of landfills.