ULLMAN SAILS
A Growing Awareness of
Our Environmental Impact
As the global sailing industry and sailcloth manufacturing continue to expand, so does their detrimental impact on the environment. Despite the advanced technologies used in sail production, only a small fraction of sails are repurposed after their time on the water, with the majority being either stored, incinerated, or dumped in landfills.
That’s why we’ve made it our mission to take on board sustainability and social responsibility, playing our part in improving the impact on the world in which we rely on to pursue our passion, from land and sky, to sea.
BROADING OUR REACH
Uplifting Our Environment and Community
SECOND LIFE
Ullman Sails is committed to environmental sustainability by extending the life of sails through various initiatives. We upcycle, trade in, and reuse sails that are brought in to us and we work with partners to extend the life of sails by mending where we can, reselling and donating. We are acutely aware of the impact our industry has on the environment and are always finding ways to lighten our footprint.
“When sailing, one cannot help but develop a deep sense of humility and true appreciation for the environment. It teaches us the importance of living in harmony with the natural world and reminds us of our responsibility to protect it.”
– Bruce Jacobs
ULLMAN GEAR
Crafting Sustainability from Sail Fabric
Since 2019, we’ve upcycled approximately three tons of sail fabric by reclaiming sail manufacturing waste globally and transforming it into durable products.
COMMUNITY
Our Sponsorships and Partnerships
Fostering a strong sense of community and compassion for people and our community is integral to our company ethos. We strive to support various causes, including youth upliftment initiatives, global communities, animal welfare, and women’s empowerment, by proudly sponsoring and partnering with these organizations:
The Little Optimist Trust
The Little Optimist Trust, founded by the original Little Optimist, Greg Bertish, is a beacon of inspiration dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children. The trust focuses on empowering disadvantaged, sick, and vulnerable youth through sailing, education, and upliftment programs. By using the power of sail therapy, it helps children build confidence, resilience, and a positive mindset while creating opportunities for growth and healing.
Ullman Sails and The Little Optimist collaborate to support youth sailing and charitable initiatives. The partnership includes providing sails and gear, supporting sailing events, fundraising, and community outreach programs. Together, we promote sailing as a powerful tool for empowerment, education, and hope for children in need.
Sail to Shelter
We are fully aligned with and supporting Sail to Shelter’s mission of repurposing elite and superyacht sails into shelters for humanitarian aid. By facilitating connections between this organization and our partners, Ullman Sails is actively contributing to their transformative journey. Sharing Sail to Shelter’s vision, we are committed to making a meaningful impact by giving a second life to sails. These sails find new purpose as shade and shelter, embodying hope in the face of humanitarian challenges.
Supporting Women in Sailing
We actively support women in sailing by promoting inclusivity, providing sponsorships, and creating opportunities. We are proud to champion women in the sport through partnerships and by backing women-led sailing events, such as the Ullman Sails Women’s Series at the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Cape Town. We collaborate with female sailors, teams, and initiatives to encourage greater participation and visibility in the sailing community.
Through partnerships, sail training programs, and involvement in women’s sailing events, we strive to create an environment where women feel valued, empowered, and recognized as integral members of the industry.
Ullman Sails not only puts humans and the environment at the forefront of our mission to make a positive impact, we also support our four-legged friends.
Since we began repurposing all the offcut and end-of-roll fabric from Ullman Sails South Africa, we have been crafting and donating dog beds to various animal shelters across Cape Town. In 2020, we responded to a call for dog beds during COVID and donated beds to the SPCA. Additionally, we provided fabric to construct waterproof shelters for Roscan Sanctum, an organization dedicated to housing, feeding, and caring for neglected dogs until the end of their lives. In 2023, we dedicated 67 minutes to making as many dog beds as possible, which were then donated to small animal shelters in and around Cape Town.
A Hands-on Initiative
As part of our ongoing commitment to our community and environment, Ullman Sails regularly gives back to the coastlines we love. From beach clean-ups to local environmental initiatives, we take time to help keep our oceans and shores clean and thriving.
Adventure Sailing for a Green World
Sailing icon Skip Novak has been an ambassador for Ullman Sails since 2018. We have provided sails for Novak’s various ventures, including high-latitude expeditions to some of the most remote locations on Earth. Together, we have developed durable and efficient sail designs suited for challenging environments. This partnership has been particularly relevant for Novak’s work with Pelagic Expeditions, which supports scientists in their efforts to better understand the fragile state of our polar regions.
Novak has also worked with Greenpeace, providing logistical support and expertise in navigating harsh environments. In 2021, he sold his expedition vessel, Pelagic Australis, to the organization. Ullman Sails is incredibly proud to be a part of such important work and tough sailing. This collaboration exemplifies a shared commitment to environmental conservation and exploration, combining Novak’s expertise, Ullman Sails’ dedication to world-class sails, and Greenpeace’s advocacy for the planet.
