Sustainability in Footwear: From Concept to Creation.
To tell you a little bit about myself, I've been designing footwear for over 14 years, and I've seen firsthand how sustainability can truly transform an industry. It's a slow-moving process, but it's worth every step.
The world of footwear, like many industries, has had its share of environmental challenges. In a sector where innovation and trends change rapidly, it's easy to overlook sustainability in favor of speed and style. But the more I've worked with companies and seen the impact of fast production cycles, the more I've realized how much the footwear industry needs to rethink its approach to design and manufacturing.
The footwear industry is a significant contributor to global emissions, with the fashion sector responsible for 4% of total CO₂ emissions. A single pair of running shoes can generate 13.6 kilograms of carbon dioxide. This staggering statistic underscores the urgent need for sustainable practices in shoe production.
When we talk about sustainability in footwear, it's not just about using eco-friendly materials. It encompasses various aspects. For some brands, sustainability may mean using recycled materials, while for others, it could mean focusing on durability so that shoes last longer. For others, it's about reducing waste by producing only what's necessary.
The concept of make-to-stock in footwear is a major contributor to waste. Brands mass-produce shoes based on predicted trends and stockpile them in warehouses, hoping they'll sell. But the reality is that overproduction often leads to surplus, and those extra shoes are either marked down or discarded. This model not only strains resources but also contributes to massive landfill waste.
Enter made-to-order footwear. Just like in the fashion world, this method of production allows brands to manufacture shoes only when an order is placed, dramatically cutting down on overproduction and waste. It's a win for the environment and the consumer, who gets a custom product that aligns with their needs.
Move-to-order production takes a slightly broader approach. It's a supply chain model that aligns with customer demand, meaning shoes are produced only when there's a confirmed order. This model not only reduces waste but also helps companies maintain a more efficient inventory system.
This shift to on-demand production has already started gaining traction, with brands like Nike and Adidas moving toward customizable footwear lines that ensure only ordered products are made. Blueview has taken it even further, offering biodegradable shoes that align with the principles of circular design.
A great example of this model in action is the way customizable footwear lines are becoming more popular. Brands like Nike offer customers the ability to design their shoes, ensuring that only the products that are ordered get made. This eliminates the traditional mass production model, reducing waste and promoting individual expression.
But let’s not forget the role of innovation. For brands truly committed to sustainability, it’s about pushing the envelope in new ways to reduce environmental impact. Many brands now offer shoes with recyclable parts or soles made from ocean plastic. Some are taking it a step further by designing shoes that can be completely disassembled so each component can be reused or repurposed. And while this level of design complexity requires a little more effort, it represents a huge leap forward in creating a circular economy for footwear.
The best part is that sustainability doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. As the demand for sustainable products increases, we’re seeing more stylish, high-performance shoes that are eco-friendly. Sustainable doesn’t mean dull. It means smart and future-forward.
As we continue to evolve, it's important to recognize that every small step counts. Sustainability isn't an all-or-nothing commitment. It's about making thoughtful, deliberate decisions at every stage of the design process: from material selection to the final packaging. The more we lean into sustainability, the more we shift the entire industry toward a greener future.
Together, we can make an impact. Whether it's supporting brands that prioritize sustainable practices or choosing shoes that have a longer life cycle, we can all play a part in reducing waste and driving positive change in the footwear industry.
Thanks for walking this path with me!
Erin Bornstein
ReBorn Designs LLC
