Footwear brands are furthering sustainability with plant-based materials
Trend - Footwear brands are manufacturing shoes out of 100% plant-based materials. These sneakers do not compromise on comfort, waterproofing, or design, and are fully biodegradable at their end-of-life. These products help improve the image of the footwear industry in an eco-friendly way.
Insight - The average consumer replaces their footwear once per year, with many being made with animal-based materials and ending up in landfills. These consumers desire products that are less harmful to animal welfare and the environment alike, with many vowing to pay a premium for a product that reduces their carbon footprint. These consumers feel better about their consumption habits when they opt for sustainable and cruelty-free products--leading to brands investing in alternative textiles and biodegradable fibers.
Insight - The average consumer replaces their footwear once per year, with many being made with animal-based materials and ending up in landfills. These consumers desire products that are less harmful to animal welfare and the environment alike, with many vowing to pay a premium for a product that reduces their carbon footprint. These consumers feel better about their consumption habits when they opt for sustainable and cruelty-free products--leading to brands investing in alternative textiles and biodegradable fibers.
Workshop Question - How could your industry or brand reduce unnecessary waste?
Trend Themes
1. 100% Plant-based Materials - Footwear brands are manufacturing shoes out of 100% plant-based materials, leading to opportunity for biodegradable and sustainable footwear.
2. Biodegradable Fibers - Consumers are looking for sustainable and cruelty-free products, driving brands to invest in alternative textiles and biodegradable fibers.
3. Plant-based Composition - The use of plant-based materials in sneakers is becoming more common, creating an opportunity for highly sustainable and eco-friendly footwear.
Industry Implications
1. Sustainable Fashion - These trends reflect a broader trend in sustainable fashion, creating opportunity for businesses seeking to create earth-friendly products.
2. Biodegradable Materials - The use of biodegradable fibers and materials in footwear is reflected more broadly in industries that are actively seeking to reduce their environmental impact.
3. Green Technology - The creation of biodegradable and plant-based fibers is driving innovation in green technology, leading to new and disruptive opportunities.
