Innovations in materials are reshaping everyday products in unexpected ways, including the shoes we wear. By leveraging bio-based feedstocks and advanced polymer technology, the chemical industry is reducing the carbon footprint of casual footwear without sacrificing performance or comfort.
A major advancement in this area involves the use of sustainably sourced biomass residues (second generation) that are ISCC+ certified, such as used cooking oil (UCO), to create innovative materials that offer an alternative to fossil fuel-derived plastics traditionally used in footwear.
These next-generation polymers offer a lower environmental impact while maintaining the durability and cushioning that consumers expect. Rather than introducing a separate sustainable product line, this approach seamlessly integrates bio-based materials into existing footwear designs, making sustainability an inherent part of the product rather than an add-on feature.
One example of this progress is the ongoing collaboration between Dow and a well-known footwear brand, working together to incorporate bio-based polymer technology into mass-market shoes. By applying expertise in material science, this partnership demonstrates how the chemical sector can drive sustainability across industries, from manufacturing to consumer goods.
