Reducing the footwear industry’s carbon footprint is becoming increasingly important. The Carbonfact Footwear Decarbonization Guide provides a comprehensive guide on how brands can reduce their carbon footprint. Fiber production worldwide is expected to reach 147 million tons in 2030, up from 116 million tons in 2022. For the industry to meet the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C target, a 45% reduction in emissions from raw materials is required.

The guide highlights how footwear manufacturers can reduce their carbon footprint by turning to more sustainable materials and using new technologies. Measuring the carbon footprint is a complex process, as footwear can contain between 30 and 80 parts. Each of these parts must provide durability, flexibility and comfort. The guide therefore suggests that by working together, brands can overcome these challenges and drive footwear-specific innovation.

Key updates include how major brands such as Nike, Adidas, PUMA are embracing sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, biobased polyester and responsibly sourced leather. For example, in 2023, Adidas began using Parley Ocean Plastic, a material made from plastic waste collected from the oceans, in its products using 99% recycled polyester.

In addition, brands such as Lane-Eight are developing sustainable sole materials derived from algae, helping both the environment and performance. Onitsuka Tiger has developed a new material made from Mexican cactus fibers that reduces CO2 emissions by 84.8%.

This guide aims to motivate footwear brands towards sustainability and offers effective strategies on how to reduce their carbon footprint. In the coming years, brands are expected to offer more environmentally friendly products in line with this guide.