Every year, an estimated 17.6 billion pounds of plastic end up in our oceans – that’s equivalent to dumping a garbage truck full of plastic, every minute.
Plastic pollution is a growing problem and an active threat to climate initiatives. Between the risk to animal safety and the risk of plastic particles in the very food that we eat, it’s high time to take action.
Since 2015, footwear brand adidas has been doing just that by partnering with Parley for the Oceans, a global network of creators, thinkers, and leaders. adidas is one of the founding members of the network, which brings brands, governments, and environmental groups together to collaborate on projects that can stop ocean pollution.
The adidas x Parley collaboration works to transform plastic waste into high-performance apparel and footwear by up-cycling intercepted marine plastic debris. Parley Ocean Plastic™, the key component of the shoe, is collected by partner organizations on shorelines and coastal areas around the world.
We’re not just focused on changing how we do business; we’re dedicated to changing how our industry does business. – James Carnes, VP Brand Strategy
The collaboration is making waves, in the most ocean-friendly way! Not only does Parley Ocean Plastic remove marine plastic debris, but it also avoids the use of new plastic that might otherwise end up in the ocean. In 2018, they produced 5 million pairs of Parley Ultraboosts!
OCEAN INITIATIVES
adidas also supports the Ocean Plastic Program, designed by Parley for the Oceans to end marine plastic pollution.
In 2017, adidas and Parley for the Oceans created a new initiative – Run for the Oceans, a global movement raising awareness about ocean pollution. In 2019, the funds raised from the Run for the Oceans movement were put towards developing Parley’s youth education program, called the Parley Ocean School, empowering youth to join the push against marine plastic pollution.
THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABILITY
The innovation doesn’t stop there! This year, adidas will release 15-20 million pairs of shoes made with Parley Ocean Plastic.
By 2024, adidas plans to use 100% recycled polyester in all products. Already, 50% of adidas products and footwear are made with recycled polyester!
The ultimate goal is to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, something adidas Germany is already on the way to doing – nearly all their electricity is sourced from renewable sources!
Through sport and creativity, initiatives like adidas x Parley for the Oceans allow us to make a difference, and even change lives.
Parley for the Oceans is a space for creators, thinkers, and leaders to come together and raise awareness for the future of our oceans and collaborate on projects and solutions to end the destruction.
—Reuters
