University of Maine Researchers Developed Lobster Shell Tees
The biodegradable golf tees were created to repurpose thousands of tons of discarded lobster shell waste.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Golf
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University of Maine researchers have successfully developed golf tees made from discarded lobster shells. The project aims to address the 50,000 tons of shell waste the Maine lobster industry discards every year.
Why it matters
By converting crustacean waste into a usable sports product, researchers are tackling a massive environmental sustainability challenge in Maine. The initiative aims to reduce landfill pressure while creating value from discarded material.
The tees are composed of a powder derived from ground lobster shells and natural materials. Currently, the product is in a testing phase following ten years of research and development.
The players
University of Maine
This is a public research university located in Orono that focuses on innovation and environmental science.
Shucks Maine Lobster Company
This is a Maine-based seafood processor that supplies the lobster shells used in the research project.
The details
To create the tees, researchers dry, break, grind, and sift lobster shells into a fine powder before combining them with natural materials. The resulting composite is then colored using natural food dyes to produce the final golf accessory.
Timeline
Researchers have dedicated 10 years to the development of these shell-based products.
The lobster industry in Maine discards 50,000 tons of shells annually.
Season Trajectory
This innovation signals a shift in golf equipment manufacturing toward bio-based materials that mitigate environmental footprints. It places the project at the forefront of a growing movement to integrate sustainable waste management into amateur sports production.
Golfers may eventually transition to these biodegradable tees during play to reduce litter on the course. Future product licensing will determine if these items become widely available at local pro shops.
The takeaway
Using industrial waste for athletic products demonstrates the potential for circular economy solutions in everyday consumer goods. If successful, this project could provide a blueprint for repurposing other biological byproducts into sporting equipment.
Further reading
For more on the latest trends and equipment in the sport, visit Golf.
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