WHAT:

Our biobased EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is made from ethanol, which is made from sugarcane and sourced from Brazil. This sustainable source grows rapidly and depends on rainwater for its growth, eliminating the need for irrigation and simultaneously removing carbon from the atmosphere during its growth.

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.

Utilising sugarcane can help absorb CO2 and lower carbon emissions. 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. We will also be increasing the percentage of sugarcane in our midsoles, which will in turn reduce the petrochemicals used as binding agents in this material.

USED IN:

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