The footwear industry has a significant environmental impact, but sustainability initiatives are gaining momentum. Here are the key points about the challenges and progress in this sector:
- CO2 Emissions: Producing a single pair of shoes can generate between 7 and 14 kg of CO2, depending on the materials and processes used. Leather has a particularly high impact due to livestock farming and the chemicals involved in tanning.
- Water Consumption: Large volumes of water are used in production, especially for leather, which can require up to 20,000 liters per kilogram.
- Waste and Recycling: Less than 1% of footwear is recycled, contributing to large amounts of solid waste.
- Use of Non-Renewable Resources: Plastics and synthetic rubbers, derived from petroleum, significantly increase the sector’s ecological footprint.
Studies and organizations propose alternatives like designing for reuse, recycling, and adopting more eco-friendly materials, such as plant-based leather alternatives.
Despite the challenges, the transition to more sustainable practices is underway, with brands adopting innovative materials and reducing emissions. Committed to this change, we place sustainability at the heart of every stage of our production process.
Reading Suggestions:
- “The Environmental Impact of the Footwear Industry” – World Footwear (2020)
- “The Impact of Leather Production” – WWF (2018)
- “Circularity in the Footwear Industry” – Ellen MacArthur Foundation (2021)
- “Fashion on the Agenda” – Global Fashion Agenda (2020)