Step into sustainability: How to choose ethical footwear
Fashion has changed dramatically over the past few decades, and so has our awareness of the impact it has on the environment. Consumers are now more conscious than ever about the clothes they wear, the materials they use, and the companies they support. This is particularly true of footwear, where ethical and sustainable options are becoming increasingly popular.
The shoe industry has a significant impact on the environment. Leather production, for instance, requires the use of toxic chemicals, and the manufacturing process itself is resource-intensive. Similarly, synthetic materials such as polyester are made from non-renewable sources and require a significant amount of energy to produce.
However, there are ethical and sustainable alternatives available that can help you find the perfect pair of shoes without compromising your principles. In this article, we’ll explore how to choose ethical footwear and what to look for when buying your next pair.
What is Ethical Footwear?
Ethical footwear refers to shoes that are made with sustainable materials and produced under fair labor conditions. In other words, ethical footwear should be environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
The materials used to make ethical footwear should be sourced sustainably. This means that they should be renewable and biodegradable, and not harm the environment during the manufacturing process. Ethical footwear should also be made under fair labor conditions. This means that everyone involved in the production process, from the farmers who grow the materials to the factory workers who assemble the shoes, should be paid a fair wage and work in safe conditions.
Why Buy Ethical Footwear?
There are several reasons to buy ethical footwear. Firstly, ethical footwear is better for the environment. Sustainable materials reduce the impact of production on the environment, while fair labor conditions ensure that workers are not exploited and are paid a fair wage.
Secondly, buying ethical footwear can help to support local communities. Many ethical footwear companies source their materials locally, which can help to support local farmers and businesses.
Finally, buying ethical footwear is a way to make a statement. It shows that you value sustainability and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that the products you buy are environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
How to Choose Ethical Footwear?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to how to choose ethical footwear. There are several factors to consider when buying ethical footwear, including materials, manufacturing process, and labour conditions.
1. Materials
The materials used to make your shoes can have a significant impact on the environment. Leather, for instance, is a material that requires a significant amount of energy and resources to produce. Synthetic materials such as polyester, on the other hand, are made from non-renewable sources and can take hundreds of years to degrade.
When choosing ethical footwear, look for shoes made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp, or recycled materials like rubber and plastic. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and often produced using eco-friendly processes.
2. Manufacturing Processes
The manufacturing process impacts the environment as much as the materials used. Look for companies that use innovative, eco-friendly, and sustainable manufacturing processes when making their shoes. Choose shoes that have been made using closed-loop production, which minimizes waste and ensures that the production process is as efficient as possible. Closed-loop production systems, for example, can use recycled water and repurpose waste materials, further reducing their environmental impact.
3. Labor Conditions
It’s essential to consider the labor conditions of those involved in the production of your shoes. Look for companies that prioritize fair labor conditions and provide safe, healthy working conditions. Some companies even provide training and education programs for their employees, which can help to improve the quality of life in the communities where the shoes are made.
4. Certifications
Finally, certifications can be a helpful way to determine whether a company produces ethical footwear. There are several certifications available, including the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Fairtrade, and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These certifications demonstrate that the company has met certain environmental and social standards and can be an easy way to identify ethical footwear.
Top Ethical Footwear Companies
Here are some of the best ethical footwear companies to consider when making your next purchase:
- Allbirds
- Veja
- Indigenous
- Patagonia
- TOMS
Allbirds is an innovative shoe company that creates environmentally sustainable footwear. They use materials such as wool, eucalyptus, and sugar cane to create shoes that are breathable and comfortable.
Veja is a French footwear company that specializes in sneakers. They use organic cotton, vegetable-tanned leather, and recycled materials to create their shoes, which are produced under fair labor conditions.
Indigenous is a U.S.-based company that creates sustainably made shoes. They use materials such as recycled rubber and certified organic cotton and alpaca to make shoes that are both stylish and environmentally friendly.
Patagonia is a well-known clothing company that also produces ethical footwear. They use materials such as hemp, recycled rubber, and organic cotton to create shoes that are both sustainable and high-performing.
TOMS’s One for One program is a popular choice for ethical footwear. For every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS donates a pair to a child in need. They also use sustainable materials such as organic cotton and recycled materials to create their shoes.
Final Thoughts
Buying ethical footwear is an achievable goal. By choosing the right materials, manufacturing processes, and labor conditions, you can ensure that you’re making a positive impact on the environment while supporting fair labor practices. Remember to consider certifications and choose brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical production. With a little research and effort, you can step into sustainability with ease.