The Japanese startup’s helmets made from recycled scallop shells and eco-friendly plastic help reduce ocean waste.
Helmet made from recycled scallop shells. (Photo: Quantum).
The Japanese startup Quantum has focused on the mountain of discarded scallop shells at a landfill in Sarufutsu village and proposed a processing solution in collaboration with the village and the company TBWA HAKUHODO. This solution involves recycling scallop shells into lightweight and sturdy helmets that workers can use daily. As a result, HOTAMET – a helmet made from eco-friendly plastic and recycled scallop shells – was born.
Sarufutsu village generates about 40,000 tons of scallop shells annually, which are discarded during the processing of scallops for the food industry. In 2021, the export of these shells to other countries for reuse ended, leading to a significant accumulation of shells in the village, creating a massive waste mountain.
HOTAMET is designed with a biomimetic approach and helps reduce ocean waste. The helmet utilizes the ridges and slopes of the scallop shell to remind the wearer that the item on their head is made from recycled materials. The helmet is also shaped to fit the human head comfortably. While using the shell as the sole material is not optimal, experts have supplemented it with eco-friendly plastic to enhance its strength and lightweight properties.
The scallop shell helmet weighs only about 400 grams. The manufacturing team believes that by applying the unique structure of the scallop shell, the helmet’s durability will increase by approximately 30% compared to traditional shapes. The helmet can be used in various situations such as disaster prevention, cycling, and construction work.
The scallop shell shape of HOTAMET is not only visually appealing but also practical, according to Shintaro Kadota, the design chief at Quantum. “From material development to design, we aim to create sustainable and environmentally friendly products. The helmet is lightweight, durable, and has a simple design. Therefore, you can use it for extended periods in various situations,” he said. The scallop shell helmet is currently priced at about 35 USD.
