On the back of the COP21 climate summit in Paris, more and more industries are trying to find ways to lessen their carbon footprint and the fashion industry is no different. Earlier this month, Adidas, in collaboration with US-based ocean conservation non-profit Parley for the Oceans, unveiled an innovative footwear concept. The 3D-printed Ocean Plastic shoe midsole demonstrates how the industry can re-think design and contribute to the fight against ocean plastic pollution.
"We want to bring everyone from the industry to the table and create sustainable solutions for big global problems,” says Eric Liedtke.
The concept shoe consists of an upper section made with ocean plastic content and a midsole, which is 3D printed using recycled polyester and gill net content.
Liedtke urged fashion industry leaders to find their own ways to contribute to the fight against global warming, adding that the world could no longer wait for world leaders to forge a new path.
“Together with the network of Parley for the Oceans we have started taking action and creating new sustainable materials and innovations for athletes. The 3D-printed Ocean Plastic shoe midsole stands for how we can set new industry standards if we start questioning the reason to be of what we create," he adds.