WHAT:
Biodegradable polymers are derived from natural raw materials and renewable resources. The polymers we use are made from a mix of biobased ingredients, such as starch, gelatin, wool, silk and fats.
WHY:
Biodegradable polymers can be composted with microorganisms and returned to the soil. While our shoes require deconstruction before disposal for these polymers to be composted, we intend for our shoes to eventually be completely biodegradable with no disassembly necessary.
Switching from plastic-based materials to this alternative is a great early step towards this goal.
WHERE WE ARE HEADING:
We are collaborating with material innovators to test their 100% biobased materials for use in footwear manufacturing. Our goal is to transition to a production process that utilises a 100% biobased material with minimal or no environmental impact.
USED IN:
Toe puffs and heel counters in our men’s range. These are crafted from a 5% cotton base and coated in 95% biodegradable polymers, ensuring optimal support and shape retention and preventing any unwanted collapsing.