WHAT:

Our biobased EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is made from ethanol, which is made from sugarcane that is sourced from Brazil. Sugarcane is rapidly growing and largely relies on rainwater for its growth rather than water-intensive irrigation processes that are generally required for most crops.

WHY:

Traditional non-biobased EVA is harmful to the environment as it is slow to break down and uses crude oil to produce, a non-renewable resource that pollutes the planet.

Therefore, we choose to source sugarcane EVA instead. In sourcing renewable materials such as plants and waste, we can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and addressing climate change.

Despite its positive environmental impact, sugarcane is unfortunately a high-risk material for modern slavery practices. However, we have confidence in the responsible sourcing of our sugarcane products, due to our EVA supplier’s robust procurement policies and practices. This includes their Responsible Ethanol Sourcing Policy, which stipulates environmental protection and workers’ rights.

Our supplier also conducts due diligence to prevent any purchase of sugarcane cultivated in the Amazon, Pantanal or Alto Paraguau River Basin biomes, and complies with Sugarcane Agroecological Zoning developed by the Brazilian government to guide sustainable expansion of sugarcane production.

WHERE WE ARE HEADING:

As of January 2024, B.plantfoam™ will be the exclusive material used in all new footbeds. Where possible, we intend to use sugarcane midsoles and opt for sugarcane-based EVA instead of traditional EVA.

USED IN:

Footbeds manufactured in Brazil and Portugal.
Midsoles used in Jinzo and Saker.