Global Badminton body approves synthetic shuttlecocks amid feather shortage
LONDON: The global governing body for badminton has approved the use of synthetic shuttlecocks in selected tournaments due to a growing shortage of traditional feathered ones.
According to a report by the BBC, factors such as bird flu, the surging global popularity of badminton, and an increase in pork consumption in China—leading to a decline in poultry focus—have caused a significant spike in the prices of shuttlecocks made from duck and goose feathers. China remains the world’s leading manufacturer of shuttlecocks; however, poultry production there has been severely hampered by various diseases in recent years.
In response, the World Federation has announced that synthetic shuttlecocks will be introduced experimentally in Grade 3 and Junior International competitions. During this phase, data regarding performance will be collected alongside feedback from players, umpires, and tournament organizers.
A traditional shuttlecock is meticulously crafted from 16 feathers, all sourced from the same wing of a single bird to ensure consistent flight and spin. Officials state that the research into synthetic alternatives is part of a long-term strategy to make the sport more sustainable and cost-effective.
