The Benefits of Sustainable and Eco Friendly Shoes

Why you should choose sustainable and eco friendly shoes

GUIDES AND TIPS

Greenly World

7/31/20233 min read

Our Footwear Choices Have Footprints

Table of Content:
Introduction
Lower Environmental Practices
Ethical Practices
Healtier Materials, Lighter Footprint
Built to last, save you money
Fuel a Fashion Revolution

Introduction
When choosing products, one may not think on how decisions can impact ourselves and the planet. Regular shoes are usually what most people purchase, but they come at a cost. Their synthetic materials, energy-intensive production, and toxic chemicals all leave behind a large environmental footprint.

Luckily, eco-friendly shoes offer a better option. Made with sustainable materials and ethical practices, these stylish shoes help minimize harm to the planet while boosting longevity, comfort, and health benefits.

Lower environmental Impact


Regular shoe production generates high levels of carbon emissions, water usage and chemical pollution. Production of one pair of leather shoes creates 23 kg of CO2 and uses 150 liters of water. Eco-friendly shoes have a much smaller footprint, creating 3 kg of CO2 and using 50 liters of water per pair. Their natural materials are also biodegradable and can break down harmlessly at the end of the shoes' lifespan. Moreover, most sustainable shoe brands offer recycling used shoes, so they avoid going to landfills and reused for new generation of shoes. It's a win win.

Ethical Practices


Most, if not all sustainable shoes and shoe brands have high standards for their ethical practices including certification that ensures fair labor treatment for workers, that superseeds far better than conventional shoes. This ensures local economy support and some shoe brands even offer donations to their manufacturers directly from us, the customers. You'll ensure that your shoes are made in good hands.

Healthier Materials, Lighter Footprint


Eco-friendly shoes use natural, organic and recycled materials that biodegrade harmlessly at the end of their lifespan. Organic cotton, hemp, recycled rubber and other sustainable fibers greatly reduce reliance on toxic petrochemicals and synthetic plastics. Moreover, they're often breathable and hypoallergenic, which means better comfort for our feet.

As a result, eco-shoe manufacturing emits far less pollution and greenhouse gases compared to conventional production. Their smaller environmental footprint also means using less water and energy - conserving precious resources for future generations.

Built to Last, Save You Money


Because sustainable shoe manufacturers prioritize craftsmanship and quality materials, eco-friendly shoes tend to stand the test of time. They break in comfortably and shape perfectly to our feet over time. Studies show eco-conscious footwear can last up to twice as long! Choosing shoes that are built to last also means saving money by replacing them less often. We've reviewed some of best sustainable shoes here

And we keep shoe waste out of landfills by extending the lifespan of products already in circulation - a key principle of the circular economy.

Fuel A Fashion Revolution

Every time we choose eco over conventional, we vote with our dollars. This growing demand signals to brands and retailers that sustainable products are a priority for conscious consumers. As more of us embrace eco-friendly shoes, we inspire the fashion industry to shift toward greener practices that minimize harm and maximize joy. Our everyday choices really do shape a better world

Your feet - and the planet - will thank you. By choosing eco over conventional, we can walk the walk for a greener future. If you're interested in choosing a pair of eco friendly shoes we recommend checking these pair of innovative and sustainable shoes.

Sources:

  1. Kho, E., & Horttanainen, M. (2021). Environmental Impacts of Textile and Leather Footwear. Sustainability, 13(19), 10789. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su131910789

  2. Energysavingtrust

  3. CCA Coalition

  4. https://www.livestrong.com/

a pair of shoes with a floral pattern
a pair of shoes with a floral pattern