Shoes are a common item found in almost every household. They are an integral part of a person's daily life and attire. With over 20 billion pairs of shoes manufactured each year, the industry significantly impacts the environment. The shoe manufacturing process is a threat to the planet due to the toxins, chemicals, and fossil fuels involved during production.
Some people are becoming conscious about their ecological footprint due to more knowledge available today. However, the problem continues to remain prevalent as the industry is massive. Here are some ways the shoe industry impacts the environment.
Animals Harmed for Shoe Material
Most leather produced globally is created with animal skin from cattle, sheep, crocodiles, snakes, and more. Many wildlife specified are specifically hunted and killed to produce shoes, especially sneakers.
Replacing regular shoes with environmentally friendly vegan items allows you to protect the environment with every step you take. A People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) approved company producing ethical shoes is the ideal choice for saving animals as you purchase footwear.
Chemicals & Toxins Pose Health Risks
Many stages in the shoe manufacturing cycle include toxins, chemicals, and fossil fuels that leak into the environment. These toxic materials can harm both wildlife and humans if they contact them.
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One of the most popular types of footwear is sneakers, and their production has an enormous adverse impact on the environment. According to a Rutgers University study, sneaker materials are created from harmful chemicals such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. These toxins can cause cancer, disrupt the nervous system, and irritate the respiratory system.
Opting for sneakers created with sustainable materials will allow you to pride yourself on the fact that you're preserving the planet with your shoe-purchase decisions.
Carbon Dioxide Emissions During Transportation
Transportation is one of the fundamental aspects of the shoe industry as it is necessary to move shoes from the warehouse to retailers. The industry may use trucks, airplanes, or ships to deliver shoes, which can contribute to carbon dioxide emissions.
When fossil fuel is burned for various modes of transportation, it leads to greenhouse gas emissions. The transportation sector was liable for the largest share of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019. A combination of the adverse effects of shoe production and transportation collectively contributes to significant environmental disadvantages.
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Contribution to Landfill Waste
Most shoes are not created with recyclable materials, so when shoes get old, people tend to toss them in the garbage. The shoes then end up in landfills and gradually contaminate the soil and drinking water. When the chemicals used in shoe production start to leak into the soil, the shoe starts to decompose, affecting the wildlife and humans.
Purchasing shoes with recyclable materials ensure that the landfill is not brimming with unnecessary waste, reducing environmental damage.
Think about the environment when you take a step to protect the Earth and yourself! The shoe industry is an essential global sector, but it has a significant negative impact on the environment. Fortunately, you can reduce the impacts by being mindful of the type of shoes you purchase.
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