Sustainability in the Footwear Industry: Challenges, Innovations, and Pathways to Circularity

Abstract

This paper examines sustainability challenges and opportunities in the global footwear industry. It synthesizes current practices across material sourcing, manufacturing, product design, usage, and end-of-life management, and evaluates innovations that reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance and affordability. We propose a conceptual framework for transitioning footwear value chains toward circular models, integrating material substitution (bio-based and recycled materials), design for disassembly, extended producer responsibility (EPR), and scalable manufacturing technologies. The paper also identifies policy instruments, industry collaborations, and research gaps necessary to accelerate adoption of sustainable footwear solutions.