168,000 Pounds of Multi-Colored Lobster Float-Rope Finds a New, Green Purpose
What do you do with hundreds or thousands of pounds of useless rope? New federal regulations are making lobster float-rope – the multi-hued ropes used by Maine lobstermen to tie undersea traps together – illegal. According to activists, the rope endangers whales by snagging and hurting them.
Float-rope, which rises just a bit above the ocean floor to prevent snags, must be replaced with sink rope by April. And hundreds –perhaps millions – of pounds of float-rope will become obsolete.
According to Laura Ludwig of the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation, a lot of the ropes would be melted and then formed into very cheap plastic plant pots and trays.
Beyond that demand, one can assume that plenty of rope would end up in landfills.
Until now. A new company based in Waldoboro, Maine, is weaving recycled float-rope into a truly unique, environmentally friendly home product everyone needs – doormats.
Ludwig coordinates a federally-funded program that trades vouchers for each pound of float-rope turned in by lobstermen. Exchanges are held along the Maine coast. The lobstermen can use the vouchers as cash when buying new sink rope.
Where does the rope go next?
The Maine Float-Rope Company collects and recycles the rope turning it into bright and vibrant – as well as virtually undestructible - doormats. According to the company’s website “It’s a win-win – a safer habitat for whales, some financial relief for the lobstermen, and a cleaner environment.”
So, why would anyone buy a float-rope doormat?
First of all, they’re authentic. Each one is constructed from real lobster float-rope collected from the bottom of the sea. It’s a completely unique way to add character to any home – especially those lake or ocean cottages inspired by nautical décor.
Secondly, they’re colorful and pleasing to the eye. Float-rope comes in a variety of bright to muted tones and, woven together, make a warm and cheerful entryway.
And lastly, they work. They trap dirt, sand, snow, and mud from your feet and paws – just as you’d expect from a durable doormat. Obviously, by nature, they’ll withstand all kinds of weather, are resistant to mold and mildew, and will not absorb water – after all, the rope was originally designed to hold lobster traps together for long periods of time in the ocean.
Made by hand in Maine, they also provide the local economy with jobs and revenue. It’s a great idea, a great company, and a great way to recycle.
