The 2023 FDRA Shoe Sustainability Benchmark Progress Report [1], provided an in-depth look at the progress and challenges within the footwear industry’s sustainability journey. It outlines strides in the footwear industry’s efforts toward sustainable practices, emphasizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics. The report, based on a survey of footwear professionals across the industry, highlighted both the strides made and the hurdles yet to be overcome.
Key findings from the report include:
Increased Focus on Sustainability: The past few years have seen a notable increase in the intensity of discussions around sustainability at the executive level. The survey results allow companies to benchmark operational efforts that enhance sustainability throughout their supply chains. Sustainability has become a priority for many companies, with discussions on strategies intensifying at the executive level. The industry faces significant challenges in aligning these strategies with marketing efforts and ensuring they are not just one-off initiatives for product launches.
Adoption of Bio-Based Materials: There is a growing use of bio-based materials and improved recycling technologies, driven by consumer demand for eco-conscious products. However, challenges persist, such as scaling sustainable innovations and enhancing traceability.
Challenges in Strategy Implementation: While many companies have developed sustainability strategies, the challenge lies in integrating these strategies into overall business operations rather than isolating them as marketing efforts.
Ill-Informed Fashion Sustainability Standards: The report stresses that ill-informed fashion sustainability standards are not well applicable to shoes, requiring a broader strategy to bring progress.
Collaborative Efforts: The FDRA has established a robust Shoe Sustainability Working Group, bringing together hundreds of professionals across brands and retailers to discuss key issues and develop collective solutions.
Consumer Demand: There is a growing demand from consumers for sustainable products, which is driving companies to innovate and adopt more sustainable practices.
Environmental Preferred Material (EPM) Guide: The guide provides thresholds for environmentally preferred materials to help companies benchmark and adjust their material sourcing.
The report emphasizes the importance of collaboration and information sharing among industry players to enhance sustainability efforts and reduce costs. It also highlights the need for continuous innovation in materials, technology, and manufacturing processes to achieve greater sustainability in the footwear industry.
Sources:
[1] Shoe Sustainability Progress Report 2023
https://fdra.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2023-FDRA-Shoe-Sustainability-Benchmark-Progress-Report.pdf
