There is a new, eco-friendly shoe collection from New Zealand, made from products like bamboo, algae, sugarcane and pineapple husk.
Produced by Wellington-based start-up YY Nation, the new shoes aim to take sustainability in the footwear industry to a whole new level. Some call it a much-needed change for an industry where manufacturers produce billions of pairs of shoes annually, most of which are bound to end up in landfills or the environment.
The YY Nation shoes also have sustainability weaved into their fabric. Using sustainably sourced bamboo, algae bloom, pineapple leaves as well as recycled plastics from clean-ups, the entire shoe is created with the planet in mind. Plant-based glues are also used to help bind the shoe and create additional natural strength.
Optimistdaily.com reports on the shoes coming in a variety of colors and the collection features four styles: loafers, two types of sneakers, and high-tops. After successfully launching on Kickstarter, the start-up is now receiving orders worldwide.