Footwear makers have turned to a range of bio-based materials in recent years as they work to reduce their carbon footprint.
Since partnering with Vivobarefoot a few years ago, Bloom has brought its algae-based materials to more than 100 companies. Late last year, Adidas announced plans to introduce its first shoe with a purely biological leather alternative made from mycelium. And in November, Los Angeles sneaker brand Clae debuted kicks crafted in part with cactus.
Now, a Philadelphia-based shoe brand is turning to sugarcane, a material beloved by Allbirds.
Braskem’s carbon-negative “I’m Green” EVA makes up more than 50 percent of Dansko’s new Kane clog. The materials maker’s biopolymer is produced using sugarcane, a renewable resource that contributes to the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by carbon dioxide capture. Furthermore, Braskem said the material can be recycled or reused in the same stream already developed for conventional EVA.
According to Braskem America CEO Mark Nikolich, the I’m Green EVA offers the same features of a conventional resin, such as flexibility, lightness and resistance. It can even replace conventional resin during the manufacturing process, meaning shoemakers do not need to invest in new machinery for plastic transformation.
Dansko’s new lightweight Kane clog features a removable footbed that incorporates the brand’s arch technology for added support. A channeled outsole supports both durability and long-lasting wear, while the perforated uppers provide ventilation. The new spring 2021 casual shoe is currently available in five colorways for $80.
“Dansko shoes are for people who strive to get the most from life,” Dansko CEO Jim Fox said in a statement. “Our new Kane clog is constructed from materials you can feel good about. Braskem understands the lifestyle focus of our business and the I’m Green material is ideal for this new product.”
The I’m Green brand represents Braskem’s larger sustainable portfolio. Since its initial launch, its lineup of chemicals and polymers has expanded and now includes a range of solutions made from post-consumer plastic waste, as well as sustainably sourced bio-based materials such as its sugarcane EVA.
Braskem offers a portfolio of plastic resins and chemical products for a variety of segments, including food packaging, construction, manufacturing, automotive, agribusiness, healthcare and hygiene. It operates 40 industrial units in Brazil, the United States, Mexico and Germany and exports its products to clients in more than 100 countries.