If you are unsure of why you should shop for ethical shoes, here are just a few reasons why:
The environment – the processes and materials used to manufacture shoes can be very damaging to the environment from the toxic chemicals used to tan leather, to the glues used to stick shoes together and the non biodegrable plastics which will end up in landfill. Sustainable shoes can be made from recycled and recyclable synthetic materials, vegetable tanned leather or organic cotton or hemp.
People – tanneries and shoe factories can be unhealthy and dangerous places for people to work. Toxic fumes and chemicals are not the only difficulties that many workers will face. They are often payed below a living wage, few rights and forced to live in poverty. By choosing shoes from an ethical shoe factory, you can be sure that the workers have been treated fairly and with respect.
Animal Welfare – concerns over both animal welfare and the carbon footprint associated with rearing animals is often a reason why people choose to shop for vegan shoes. Vegan shoes are usually made from a range of leather substitutes both natural or man made.
