26-03-2020
Any product produced in mass quantities, including footwear, generates waste and therefore harms the environment. Although collecting shoes itself does not directly affect the environment, the process of creating shoes does.
Most shoes are made of non-renewable materials and the production process can emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The production process may have a negative impact on the planet, but it will not stop consumers from collecting new pairs.
Nowadays, consumer awareness is increasing significantly, so brands are opting for greener production materials and creating garments with a longer shelf life. An example of this is the use of cotton, which comes from natural cultivation.
However, we can do a lot ourselves to reduce the amount of waste generated and still enjoy our new shoes.
- When footwear reaches the consumer, it is usually not properly disposed of or recycled. Consider donating or recycling your shoes instead of throwing them in the bin.
- Many brands are helping to facilitate this process. Used shoes can be used to create new material that is used to create sports surfaces such as courts, pitches and treadmills.
- Buy one pair of shoes for the whole season. Today, models are available to match any outfit. Versatile models will allow you to add to your private collection, pairing well with clothing ensembles and save money for other expenses.
Recycling and donating footwear is just the beginning. We should also try to think about how our other favourite things affect the planet. Our cars, clothes and even our smartphones can potentially be harmful to the environment too.
I'm not saying we should all turn ourselves into Captain Planet, but it might be worth considering buying one less pair of shoes a year or cycling to work instead of driving.
