Cycling is by far the most sustainable way of travel one could opt for, in today’s world full of personal vehicles owned by every other person. Though an excellent way of eco-friendly commute, cycling can still contribute to waste when the bicycle reaches the end of its journey. At the point in time when it becomes unusable, the inner tubes of bicycles still stand in its way to become fully sustainable. The scraps often do not end up in the right place to be recycled, however, Bev Martin took some responsibility on her own shoulders and created Velo Culture, a company that creates various products made of inner tubes.
Starting small
Like any other start-up, Velo Culture started small, at a spare room in the Martins’ home. Bev’s first raw materials were supplied by her husband, Nev, who had his very own pile of punctured tubes to fuel the initiative. Her first products were made in her sewing machine, which are now known as the Cake Stop Caddy and Penny Pincher- a line of sustainable wallets, popular across many different shopping platforms. The tubes they utilise are such that have seen long use and eventually punctured. They are sent to the venture by bicycle owners or workshops that rent out bicycles. Bev is happy to receive them and hopes they have been ridden to their fullest, before she cuts them open and cleans them for their upcycling journey.
Velo Culture is all about the ideals of recycle and upcycle, therefore, Bev does not limit her work to just inner tubes. To diversify the product range, other fabrics such as banners, signage and old tents are also put to use alongside the tubes. Their usage allows a splash of colour to be included in the products. On top of everyday needs like sippers, wallets, and pouches, Velo Culture offers keyrings, bike straps, soft phone cases, even organic cotton beanies! The venture does not just stop at bicycle scraps, they also have products every biker needs, ranging from bike wraps to bike tool rolls.
Not yet tyred
The partnership between Bev and Nev is not just limited to the household, but extends till Velo Culture. Nev offers bike fits to professional athletes and everyday bikers, that are highly appreciated by his patrons. He has years of experience and a background in biomechanics and sports massage, alongside his time spent as a competitive biker using all kinds of bikes. With both of their enthusiasm regarding the sport, the two are expecting a good interaction with other riders through the VC Performance Nutrition & Coaching. From 2020, the team at Velo Culture has also partnered with Velorim UK, meaning none of their tube scraps go to waste and landfill. They are now all recycled which is another huge step to us becoming zero waste.
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