Rebalancing Resources: EP Climbing Introduces Eucalyptus into its Range
English below
REBALANCING RESOURCES: EP CLIMBING INTRODUCES EUCALYPTUS INTO ITS RANGE
At EP Climbing, innovation isn’t just about designing higher-performing structures — it’s about helping the industry move toward more sustainable practices.
EP Climbing is taking concrete action to reduce its environmental footprint. The company has an R&D team dedicated to researching less polluting materials and extending the lifespan of equipment. Among its new solutions, EP is now offering a new eucalyptus-based panel option — a high-performance wood that complements birch, its long-standing core material.
“Our goal is twofold: to offer more flexibility to our clients and partners, and to support a responsible supply chain within the climbing world. By choosing eucalyptus, we’re not reacting to market conditions — we’re creating the materials of the future, and the climbing of tomorrow.”
Advancing materials without compromising on quality
The 2022 European sanctions on wood from Russia and Belarus highlighted the global dependence on specific timber species. Instead of turning to short-term substitutes, EP Climbing chose to open a new path: developing an alternative that meets both its technical and ethical standards.
This new eucalyptus-based construction solution does not replace birch. It enriches the existing range and is aimed at projects where durability is a key criterion — without compromising strength, visual quality, or safety.
An ethical and controlled supply chain
As a member of the ABEO Group, EP Climbing operates within a strict framework for responsible purchasing. An internal audit confirmed the full compliance of its supply chain with the commitments outlined in the group’s Responsible Purchasing Charter.
Every panel — whether birch or eucalyptus — meets the same requirements:
FSC® certification guaranteeing wood from sustainably managed forests
Signing of a “Purchasing Code of Conduct” in line with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards
Ethical price indexing to prevent any introduction of unauthorized wood
Tested and certified performance
Before entering the market, the new eucalyptus-based panel underwent rigorous testing in accordance with EN 12572-1/2/3 standards.
The results confirm mechanical resistance and safety identical to birch:
Vertical tensile strength of 7.2 kN without deformation
Resistance to impact from a 22 kg mass dropped from 1.5 m with no cracking
Structural stability and anchoring-point reliability meeting all standard requirements
FACILITIES THAT HAVE ALREADY BEEN TESTING EUCALYPTUS FOR OVER A YEAR
Saint-André-les-Alpes, France
The first facility to adopt 100% eucalyptus panels, this pilot site validated the mechanical and aesthetic performance of the material under intensive use. Climbers gave excellent feedback on the feel and visual comfort.
Managers also noted better dimensional stability over time, particularly under varying humidity conditions.
South Bloc Parc, France
A mixed eucalyptus-and-birch wall designed to create an immersive “forest” atmosphere in the children’s area.
This concept highlights the aesthetic versatility of eucalyptus panels, their compatibility with other woods, and their potential for nature-themed or educational projects.
Zermatt Sports Hall, Switzerland
Built entirely with eucalyptus panels, this installation tested the material’s performance in an alpine context with significant climate variation.
Feedback confirms eucalyptus wood’s stability and reliability for intensive sporting use, while offering a natural aesthetic that fits seamlessly into the local environment.
About EP CLIMBING
Founded in 1985, EP Climbing (Entre-prises) is a pioneer of the climbing wall industry, developing bespoke climbing and leisure solutions worldwide. A member of the ABEO Group and a leader in climbing-wall innovation, EP Climbing is the official supplier for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and international climbing competitions.
www.epclimbing.com — @EPClimbing
Contact:
Tiphaine Lazard, International Marketing Manager
t.lazard@epclimbing.com
+33 6 27 26 01 94
