The Sustainable Revolution: Introducing the World’s First 3D-Printed Compostable Shoe
In an era where sustainability and fashion are becoming increasingly intertwined, one brand is leading the way towards a greener future. Vivobarefoot, in collaboration with material science company Balena, has unveiled a game-changing prototype: the world’s first 3D-printed, made-to-measure, compostable shoe.
This is not just a partnership with @BalenaScience; it’s the next step in a transformative journey challenging conventional processes with a vision for an on-demand democratised system that cuts out long, wasteful supply chains and enables a more circular solution. 🌿 #VivoBiome pic.twitter.com/FffT15WVzg
— VIVOBAREFOOT (@VIVOBAREFOOT) January 14, 2024
Breaking free from the traditional linear production model, Vivobarefoot’s compostable shoe aims to combat the staggering environmental impact of the fashion industry. Did you know that fashion is responsible for 10 percent of global carbon emissions? With this innovative creation, Vivobarefoot hopes to significantly reduce the number of shoes ending up in landfills every year.
Drawing inspiration from nature, the compostable shoe features a beige/white color, reminiscent of the fascinating long-net stinkhorn fungus found in forests. The shoes are not only visually appealing but also durable, comparable to other polymers used in making trainers.
To create these revolutionary shoes, customers undergo an in-store foot scan, enabling a custom-made fit tailored to each individual’s unique measurements. The crafting process takes up to 30 hours, resulting in a shoe that perfectly conforms to the wearer’s feet. But here’s where the real magic happens – once the shoes have served their purpose, they can be returned to an industrial composting facility. There, the patented material breaks down into a non-toxic substance, closing the loop and minimizing waste in the footwear industry.
Asher Clark, co-founder of Vivobarefoot, envisions a future where supply chains are more efficient and waste is eliminated.
“This is about reimagining the way things are done from linear, offshore production to the world’s first scan-to-print-to-soil footwear,” Clark explains.
It’s a pioneering vision that aligns with the brand’s commitment to sustainable practices.
While the compostable shoe offers an innovative and eco-friendly alternative, Clark points out an important consideration. The thermoplastic used in the shoes requires composting at a proper facility, as it is composed of 51 percent biological materials and 49 percent petrochemicals. Responsible disposal is essential to ensure the shoe’s full potential in reducing environmental impact.
Furthermore, the compostable shoe is a testament to the growing possibilities in sustainable fashion. Vivobarefoot’s visionary approach challenges the norms of traditional footwear production, offering a glimpse of what a regenerative future holds.
Are you ready to take a step towards a more sustainable world? Vivobarefoot’s compostable shoe is set to hit the market.
References: Vivobarefoot’s
