Adidas showcases shoe made from ocean plastics

Clothing manufacturer Adidas has celebrated its partnership with Parley for the Oceans by creating a prototype shoe made from recycled ocean waste and deep-sea gillnets.


The concept shoe, unveiled at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, is the first in a line of ocean-waste products that Adidas plans to release this year.

Adidas global brands executive Eric Liedtke said: “This partnership allows us to tap into new areas and create innovative materials and products for our athletes. We invite everyone to join us on this journey to clean up the oceans.”

The sporting giant has committed to cleaning up its environmental profile in recent times, reporting more than 20% cuts to emissions, water use and waste in the last six years. The company’s 2014 sustainability report stated it aimed to cut emissions by 30% by the end of 2015.

The firm also plans to phase out plastic bags from its 2,900 stores as part of its partnership with Parley for the Oceans.

Sea plus

Adidas announced the design at a talk hosted by Parley for the Oceans, which aims to bring together developers and leaders to raise awareness on ocean pollution. Materials for the shoe were recovered by Parley for the Ocean’s partner organisation Sea Shepherd.

Parley for the Oceans founder Cyrill Gutsch said: “We want to establish the oceans as a fundamental part of the debate around climate change. Our objective is to boost public awareness adn to inspire new collaborations that can contribute to protect and preserve the oceans.”

Gutsch said the creative contribution of Adidas would show it was “possible to turn ocean plastic into something cool.”

Shoe-in

The Adidas prototype shoe is the latest in a growing trend of sustainable footwear innovations. In February, Marks and Spencer launched a range of shoes made from rice husks, plastic bottles and coffee grounds, known as ‘Footglove Earth’.

Clothing giant Kering has also introduced biodegradable soles for shoes in its brands, including Gucci and Puma.

Matt Field

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