With so much garbage floating in the ocean these days and forming small ‘islands,’ it’s a relief to learn about small-time inventions like this new golf ball. A chemical engineering student from the University of Maine created these lobster balls to address the problem of golf balls ending up in bodies of water (and choking alligators). The lobster shell ball is made of pulverized lobster shell and a couple of really cheap by-products.
It’s believed that once these lobster shell golf balls are put into production, the customer list will include the owners of golf courses near the sea and on cruise ships.
Environmental Impact of Traditional Golf Balls
Traditional golf balls are made from synthetic materials like rubber and plastic, which do not biodegrade easily. When these balls end up in oceans, lakes, or rivers, they can take hundreds of years to break down. During this time, they can cause significant harm to marine life. Fish, birds, and other animals can mistake these small, round objects for food, leading to ingestion and potential choking hazards. Additionally, the chemicals that leach out from these materials can pollute the water, further harming the ecosystem.
Innovative Solution: Lobster Shell Golf Balls
The lobster shell golf ball is a groundbreaking innovation aimed at mitigating these environmental issues. The ball is made from pulverized lobster shells, which are a by-product of the seafood industry. This not only provides a sustainable use for waste materials but also ensures that the golf balls are biodegradable. When these balls end up in water, they break down much faster than traditional golf balls, reducing the risk to marine life.
The idea originated from a chemical engineering student at the University of Maine, who saw an opportunity to combine environmental sustainability with sports. The student utilized lobster shells, which are abundant in Maine due to its thriving lobster industry. By grinding the shells into a fine powder and combining them with other inexpensive by-products, the student was able to create a golf ball that performs similarly to traditional ones but with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.
Potential Market and Applications
The potential market for these lobster shell golf balls is vast. Golf courses located near coastal areas or bodies of water would benefit greatly from using these biodegradable balls. Not only would it reduce the environmental impact, but it would also appeal to environmentally conscious golfers. Cruise ships, which often have mini-golf courses on board, could also adopt these eco-friendly balls to minimize their environmental footprint.
Moreover, these golf balls could be marketed to golf enthusiasts who practice their swings at home, especially those who live near lakes or rivers. By using biodegradable balls, they can enjoy their practice sessions without worrying about polluting the water.
Future Prospects and Developments
As awareness about environmental issues continues to grow, the demand for sustainable products is likely to increase. The lobster shell golf ball is just one example of how innovative thinking can lead to practical solutions for environmental problems. Future developments could include improving the durability and performance of these balls to match or even surpass traditional golf balls.
Additionally, this concept could inspire similar innovations in other sports and industries. For instance, tennis balls, baseballs, and other sports equipment could be made from biodegradable materials, further reducing the environmental impact of recreational activities.
Source Gizmag
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