Company Performance Metrics
The global sports sector is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, with the United Nations reporting that its emissions are equivalent to those of a medium-sized country. A major factor in this footprint is the supply chain for sports-related gear, which is characterized by extensive resource extraction, production emissions, and
waste generation. Notably, industry leaders like Nike and Adidas have set ambitious goals for climate neutrality, targeting 2050, but the pace of progress is slow. This delay in corporate action has a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, particularly children in underserved communities who lack access to quality sports gear.
Passback emerges as a 501c3 startup solution to this challenge, creating a circular economy for sports gear and textiles. Our focus is on upcycling soccer gear in St. Louis, MO, as a starting point.
Through over 75 interviews, we've identified a gap in the linear economy where surplus gear accumulates, leading to downstream environmental consequences and impending upstream regulation.
Our traction and research shows that major sports complexes require a monthly recycling service to handle their lost and found items, as well as surplus inventory from teams and tournaments. Additionally, sports retailers seek efficient solutions for redistributing unsold merchandise, as they currently resort to the easiest way of making it disappear due to time, money and logistical challenges.
Passback's value proposition encompasses a multifaceted approach: For sports clubs and retailers, Passback offers a cost-effective way to off-load surplus inventory, reducing waste management time and expenses. We provide underserved communities with access to high-quality sports equipment at little to no cost. This approach not only addresses the environmental challenges associated with sports gear but also promotes social equity and inclusion. For middle-income families with children exploring various sports, we offer a fast and easy re-commerce solution where items are sold at a fraction of the retail price, with all proceeds supporting our mission. Any material that cannot be extended in its lifecycle by Passback is sold to a recycling plant or, ideally, sold back to the brand. (Waste is responsibly tracked and recorded.)
Essentially, Passback operates as an innovative liquidation service. Specifically, we operate within the U.S. Department of Energy's RE-X Strategy: R3 Reuse, R4 Repair, R5 Refurbish, and R7 Repurpose.
