Production and disposal of footwear around the world

The global production of shoes is a significant contributor to environmental challenges. It is estimated that 23-24 billion pairs of shoes are manufactured each year, driven by growing demand for footwear fueled by fashion trends, urbanization, and increasing disposable incomes. The rapid expansion of the fast fashion industry, which promotes the purchase of cheap, mass-produced shoes, has further accelerated production. Globally, it is estimated that around 20 billion pairs of shoes are thrown away each year.

The information about the global disposal of shoes comes from a variety of sources, including studies on waste and environmental impact as well as reports related to the fashion industry and consumer habits. Some sources that discuss shoe waste and environmental issues include:

1. Environmental Protection Agencies and Studies: Agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other environmental organizations have conducted research into textile and footwear waste.

2. Reports on Fast Fashion and Sustainability: Various reports from sustainability organizations, such as the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, highlight the environmental impact of the fashion and footwear industries, including disposal rates.

3. News Articles and Documentaries: Media outlets have also covered the environmental effects of consumer waste, including how much waste, such as footwear, ends up in landfills.

Although specific numbers can vary slightly depending on the data source, the figure of around 20 billion pairs globally each year is a widely referenced estimate in environmental and sustainability discussions.

The environmental consequences of such massive footwear production are severe. Many traditional shoes are made from synthetic materials that can take up to 1,000 years to break down in landfills. This extended decomposition period causes harmful chemicals to leach into the environment, posing serious risks to both ecosystems and human health. These materials contribute to pollution, waste, and resource depletion, as they are non-biodegradable and difficult to recycle.

A 2013 MIT study revealed that the production of each pair running shoes generate 13.6 kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions. These shoes, designed to endure greater force than regular footwear, are primarily made from petroleum-based plastics, which account for 1.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the cotton used in sneakers contributes to environmental harm due to the extensive use of pesticides and chemicals in cotton farming. Leather shoes also add to the pollution problem, as the cattle industry is responsible for greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation. Furthermore, the chemicals used to enhance the durability of these materials have damaging effects on the planet.

The production of a single pair of shoes can involve significant water usage, depending on the materials used and the production process. On average, it is estimated that producing one pair of shoes, particularly those made from leather or synthetic materials, may require around 8,000 liters of water.

Key factors influencing water consumption include:

1. Raw material cultivation: For example, cotton production for shoes requires large amounts of water, especially in irrigation processes.

2. Manufacturing processes: Stages such as dyeing materials, producing synthetic materials (e.g., rubber, plastics), or processing leather also consume significant water.

3. Transport and logistics: Water may also be used in logistics, such as cooling machines during the transportation of raw materials.

Therefore, especially with large-scale shoe production, the footwear industry has a notable impact on water resources, highlighting the need for sustainable development and more efficient water management.

What data can we find in other countries around the world?

In India, it is estimated that approximately 1.5 billion pairs of shoes are discarded each year.

In China, it is estimated that about 7 billion pairs of shoes are thrown away each year.

In the United States, it is estimated that about 300 million pairs of shoes are thrown away each year.

In Indonesia, it is estimated that around 500 million pairs of shoes are discarded each year.

In Nigeria, it is estimated that around 200 million pairs of shoes are discarded each year.

In Brazil, it is estimated that around 1 billion pairs of shoes are discarded each year.

In the European Union, it is estimated that around 2.5 billion pairs of shoes are discarded each year.

Let's focus on Norway

In Norway, it is estimated that about 6 million pairs of shoes are discarded annually. This figure is part of a broader trend seen in many industrialized nations where the fast-paced consumer culture leads to a high volume of waste, especially in the footwear and fashion sectors. Several factors contribute to this number:

Key Factors Driving Shoe Waste in Norway:

1. Consumer Habits: As in many developed countries, Norwegians tend to replace shoes relatively frequently due to trends, seasonal changes, or wear and tear. This disposable culture, driven by fast fashion, encourages consumers to buy new shoes rather than repair or reuse old ones.

2. Fast Fashion Influence: The global rise of fast fashion has impacted Norway as well, where inexpensive, mass-produced shoes are easily accessible. These shoes, while affordable, often have shorter lifespans, leading to quicker disposal after they lose their appeal or functionality.

3. Material and Durability: Many shoes, particularly those made from synthetic materials or low-cost production methods, do not last long. As these shoes wear out or become uncomfortable, they are more likely to be thrown away rather than repaired or recycled.

4. Lack of Repair Culture: Unlike some cultures where repairing shoes is common, in Norway, as in many other Western countries, there is less emphasis on shoe repair. This cultural shift has led to the easy disposal of shoes when they are damaged or outdated.

Environmental Impact:

The disposal of shoes in Norway, like in other countries, contributes significantly to environmental pollution. Many shoes are made from synthetic materials such as plastic, rubber, and other non-biodegradable components. These materials take hundreds of years to decompose, making shoe waste a long-term environmental issue.

While Norway has strong waste management systems, much of the discarded footwear ends up in landfills or incinerators. Shoes that are not recycled or repurposed can release toxic chemicals into the environment as they break down. Additionally, synthetic materials used in shoes can contribute to microplastic pollution, which is an increasing concern for ecosystems and wildlife.

Recycling and Sustainability Efforts:

Norway is known for its commitment to sustainability and has several initiatives to address the environmental impact of consumer waste, including footwear. Some of the measures include:

1. Recycling Programs: Norway has implemented programs to encourage recycling, and there are growing efforts to improve the recycling of shoes specifically. Some stores and organizations offer shoe collection programs where old shoes can be dropped off for recycling or reuse.

2. Shoe Repair and Donation: While less common than in some other countries, there are initiatives encouraging shoe repair, as well as programs promoting the donation of gently used shoes. Several charities and organizations accept shoes for reuse, which helps reduce the number of shoes that are discarded.

3. Sustainable Fashion Movements: Norway has seen a rise in sustainable fashion movements, with local designers and brands creating shoes and clothing from eco-friendly, sustainable materials. These companies often offer repair services, recycling options, or shoes made with biodegradable materials to reduce waste.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns: There is an increasing focus on educating consumers about the environmental impact of shoe waste, with campaigns encouraging people to think more carefully about their footwear choices. This includes buying durable, high-quality shoes that last longer or purchasing secondhand shoes as an alternative to constantly buying new ones.

The Road Ahead:

The future of shoe waste in Norway depends largely on consumer behavior, industry innovation, and continued efforts toward sustainability. If more people embrace the principles of circular economy—such as reusing, recycling, and reducing consumption—it could help mitigate the environmental impact of shoe disposal.

Sources: Miljøetaten, Biodegradable Future, Circular Online, Unsustainable Magazine.