adidas plans to achieve 50% recycled polyester in 2020
Image: Instagram user adidasau
The global sportswear giant is taking the necessary steps towards sustainability, but how is adidas going to do it?
Your favourite sportswear brand has just committed to taking a greater step towards sustainability. adidas plans to utilise recycled plastic waste as more than half of the polyester used in its products this year.
This stems from the brand's commitment to combat ocean pollution by avoiding plastic waste. Last year, the brand produced 11 million pairs of shoes made from plastic waste. This year, the goal is much higher and we are pretty impressed.
adidas plans to produce between 15 to 20 million pairs of shoes made from plastics collected from beaches and coastal regions. By 2024, adidas says it will use only recycled polyester.
What's wrong with polyester?
The production of polyester heavily consumes resources like energy and water, and when it comes to the end of its life, it needs to be disposed of properly or recycled.
Recycled polyester changes things. It's made out of plastic waste such as bottles, while still delivering the same function. It reduces the environmental impact by 20-60% compared to virgin polyester. The process uses less water, chemicals and energy during production. It also reduces the amount of CO2 emissions that end up in our atmosphere.
This announcement brings forward the conversation of sustainable fashion, and it's not the only promise the brand has made.
By 2030, adidas says it will reduce greenhouse emissions from its own operations and those of its suppliers by 30%, compared to emissions in 2017. Additionally, the brand aims to launch the second generation of its fully recyclable Futurecraft Loop running shoe in 2021.
This isn't the first time we've seen adidas take action. Back in 2016, the brand made the choice to eliminate all use of plastic bags in retail stores. This was followed by another case of action in 2018 with adidas achieving 100% use of sustainably produced cotton in its materials.
How can you do your part?
adidas recommends washing less, washing with cold water, filling the machine when washing and line dry. When you're done with a product, the brand suggests you think about donating, swapping or disposing of them properly.
For more on adidas, you can check out our dedicated hub here. It's where you can find all the latest news, sneaker release dates and all the best deals to take advantage of.
If you're hunting for more information on sustainability, you can head on over to our Finder Green hub.
