Companies use recycled materials, green energy and reduce water waste
The footwear market is heated and is expected to reach the mark of 893 million pairs produced by the end of this year, an increase of 3.2% compared to 2023. This growth goes hand in hand with sustainability, a theme that has gotten prominence at BFSHOW, the main footwear fair in the country that was held between November 11 and 13 in the Anhembi District, in São Paulo. The fair featured the Arena Sustentabilidade space, an exhibition that presented products from ten companies, all of them developed with sustainable production practices and certified by Sustainable Origin.
Among the brands that stand out in the subject, is Pegada Calçados. At the fair, the company presented Pegada ECOSTEP, a footwear line with canvas upper and recycled cotton mesh, elastic PET yarn laces and recycled material soles. "ECOSTEP emerged as a way to communicate and consolidate our sustainability actions. Each pair is produced by reusing materials that would otherwise be discarded and adopting processes that reduce environmental impacts, bringing a new perspective to sustainable fashion, transforming recycled raw materials into modern and comfortable sneakers.", says Renata Scholles, Marketing Manager of the company.
“We observe a growing interest in topics such as sustainability and we know that this engagement reflects the trend of the Brazilian market, where more and more consumers prioritize products that combine environmental responsibility and durability. Therefore, we have further intensified our sustainable actions to meet this demand.", explains Renata. Pegada has received, in 2024, the Diamond level certification – the highest category - of the Sustainable Origin project, promoted by Abicalçados in partnership with Assintecal, which recognizes the best environmental, economic and social practices of the footwear industry. "This level indicates that we follow strict criteria in areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, traceability of raw materials and care for social responsibility, such as good working conditions and support for the communities where we operate,” she adds.
Modare Ultraconforto, from the Grupo Beira Rio S. A, also presents sustainable products at the fair, with the Bio-Nurture concept, which combines technology and nature, elevating women's self-care and sustainable well-being. The products are vegan and comfort-focused, meeting the growing demand for conscious and environmentally responsible choices. "Modare delivers comfort and care for the feet, as well as style at a much more affordable price than the competition. It reuses waste in the product and creates accessible store spaces, collaborating for the local economy throughout Brazil", explains Tiago Vicente, marketing advisor of the brand. The company also relies on zero water waste and the use of 98% green energy in its activities.
Piccadilly is another company that values sustainable practices, operating with solar energy and zero landfill policies. Recognized for innovation and comfort technologies, Piccadilly has received, for the second time, the Diamond certification in Sustainable Origin.
For the next season's collection, the brand launches the Gisa Doll shoe, with model's sole that incorporates 20% recycled waste, from the reuse of injection leftovers of the same material, which are ground and reintegrated into the production process.
