Balena’s collaboration with For Ever, one of the world’s largest outsole makers, marks a significant stride toward circularity in the footwear industry. The groundbreaking partnership, set to be unveiled at Lineapelle-Italy on February 20th, signals a pivotal moment in sustainable shoe manufacturing.
For over five decades, For Ever has supplied soles to renowned shoemakers globally. Now, they are venturing into uncharted territory by introducing BioCir flex Footwear Soles, developed in tandem with Balena – a material science company specializing in compostable and biodegradable thermoplastic materials.
BioCir flex soles represent a paradigm shift in footwear sustainability according to the two companies. Manufactured through injection molding, these soles are not only fully industrially compostable but also boast a high biobased content, setting a new standard for eco-friendly footwear. Balena’s innovative use of BioCir flex, a robust bioplastic material, ensures both durability and flexibility – crucial elements for shoe performance.
A sustainable alternative
The collaboration addresses a critical gap in the market – recycling challenges posed by traditional shoe soles. With an estimated 24 billion shoes added to the market annually, the majority end up in landfills due to their non-recyclable nature. By offering a circular solution, BioCir flex soles pave the way for a sustainable future in footwear.
For Ever Sales Manager André Campos expressed excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing their shared commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.
“Embracing BioCir flex is more than a collaboration and we’re excited to tread this sustainable path with Balena, shaping a future where every step is eco-conscious”, he said.
Meanwhile, Balena CEO David Roubach highlighted the partnership’s significance in achieving full circularity in the footwear industry, stating that the vision of a compostable shoe is now a tangible reality. “Demonstrating commitment throughout the entire lifecycle, we take pride in this partnership, offering a sustainable solution that contributes to a circular future in the footwear industry,” Roubach said.
