Celebrate Earth Week at Shoebuy: Shoes
Happy Earth Day! Shoebuy.com is celebrating Mother Earth by giving you a whole week’s worth of eco-friendly goods (bags and accessories are to come). Many of us are under the impression that being Earth-conscious also implies a great sacrifice, whether it be in style, comfort, quality, or just a sacrifice of our time. But the truth is, so many giving companies are already out there, that it makes it easy to do your part. Plus, once you make that first small step, say with eco-friendly shoes (pun intended), it may inspire you to do more for the Earth. So, take a glance at what these amazing companies are already doing for our planet, and be inspired!
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Much of Timberland’s footwear is made using recycled, organic materials and earth conscious processes. With the launch of their more recent “Earthkeepers” line, Timberland takes the next step by utilizing “Green Rubber”, which has been converted from old scrap tires. Also, each Earthkeepers shoe is designed to be taken apart when you are done with them, so that the pieces can be recycled. Timberland also gives employees 40 hours each year of paid time-off to serve their communities through such programs as City Year, which cleans city parks and unites the youth of varied backgrounds.
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As a company founded on Earth Day, the environment is at the core of everything this company does. 2010 marks Earth’s 40th anniversary, which they celebrated with a milestone in sustainable shoe design: BioStep, the new biodegradable shoe sole. All Earth shoes are made of 70% recycled content, use water-based adhesives to reduce harmful run-off during production, and have footbeds made of recycled materials. Plus, Earth’s line is vast (from sneakers, to dress shoes, to sandals, to boots) so they are a brand which is easily adapted into every aspect of your lifestyle.
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Who said that Earth-friendly shoes had to be boring? NeuAura is a line of beautiful women’s dress shoes which are as trendy as they are kind to the environment. Absolutely no animal by-products are used in the manufacturing and finishing processes. All NeuAura shoes are packed efficiently and their shoe boxes, tissue paper and fillings are made from 100% recycled paper. All NeuAura materials are sourced locally to the factory (30-40 miles) which means that less fuel is consumed during transport.
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La Chica Chic is a relatively young company, founded by Cristiane Valdez in 2003 in California. This collection of Brazilian-inspired shoes (as well as jewelry, handbags, and other accessories) are crafted from a combination of organic leather, suede, and recycled materials. Additionally, these pieces are infused with semi-precious gemstones, beads and rare South American crystals, which keep these shoes looking earth-friendly, but oh-so-chic.
Keep your eye out later this week for more Earth-friendly products!
-Lauren Z. and Jen H.
