Footwear brand TOMS is boosting its sustainability credentials with the launch of its earthwise collection that, as the brand says, is ‘rooted in earth-friendly materials and processes’. All products in the earthwise line must contain a specified minimum of earth-friendly materials in at least one of its main components, the company said.
In this case, the California-based brand has opted to create an outsole incorporating Braskem’s I’m green bio-based EVA. In footwear, EVA is a major component of the outsole. It provides a rubber-like texture and durability. Braskem’s bio-based EVA is made from biofuel obtained from sugar cane – a highly efficient crop that is carbon-negative, as sugar cane consumes CO2 and extracts clean oxygen.
According to the UNEP, the UN Environment Programme, the fashion industry generates 10% of the world’s global greenhouse gas emissions - more than international flights and shipping combined.
TOMS is striving to expand its sustainable practices in other ways as well. The company has committed to reduce its carbon footprint by 2025, among others through a more sustainable choice of resources and materials for production. This includes, for example, using plant-based dyes and recycled polyester; choosing Tencel Lyocell, a material derived from wood pulp, as the lining material for its earthwise shoes; and developing an Ortholite insole featuring 26 % eco content.