Sumitomo Rubber Industries introduced the SRIXON Z-STAR+e (not for sale), the eco-conscious golf ball featuring plant-derived biomass in its components for the first time in our brand. While being environmentally friendly, it maintains the same high standards as the current SRIXON Z-STAR.
The outer layer of the SRIXON Z-STAR+e golf ball contains urethane derived from biopolyol extracted from corn. This innovative material reduces carbon dioxide emissions during the manufacturing process when compared to conventional petroleum-based materials.
Sumitomo Rubber Industries announced its 2020 Sustainability Long-Term Policy, Driving Our Future Challenge 2050. This policy outlines our objective to attain a 100% sustainable material rate in all of our golf balls in 2050.
The SRIXON Z-STAR+e golf ball marks a global breakthrough, representing a substantial stride toward the aforementioned goal.
The packaging, crafted from 100% recycled paper, complements our sustainable ball, featuring a 40% reduction in paper usage through design changes (*1). Our commitment to eco-friendliness also extends to using FSC®-certified paper (*2) for select product packages, eliminating plastic window films, and minimizing the use of plastic-based silver metallic paper.
*1: We redesigned the outer box, replacing the split top and bottom sections with a one-touch open type. This eliminates the folded-in sections. We modified the box's cross-sectional shape to hexagonal, aiming to minimize unused space.
*2: Promotional license FSC® N003716
The SRIXON Z-STAR+e was also showcased in the SDGs booth at the recent Dunlop Phoenix Tournament. The SRIXON Z-STAR+e balls were used in the honorary start at the 50th anniversary event of the tournament. Renowned golf players like Isao Aoki and Tsuneyuki Nakajima took the shot.
Balls used at the honorary start.
Photo - Center: Isao Aoki shot the white ball.
Photo - Left: Tsuneyuki Nakajima shot the yellow ball.
*Honorary start: A ceremonial tee shot that marks the commencement of a prestigious golf tournament. The honorary start, or special first shot, is often taken by a golf legend, past champions of the tournament, or someone with a notable connection to the sport or event.