Today, I’m excited to spotlight another standout in sustainable footwear brand, Rothy’s! As we gear up for summer, finding the perfect pair of sandals or loafers is at the top of many people’s wish lists. This week, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a brand that expertly crafts both. Let’s dive into their stylish, eco-friendly options that are perfect for the warmer weather ahead!
Rothy’s stands out as an exceptional sustainable brand for two key reasons: its materials and its factories.
Let’s dive into the materials Rothy’s uses to craft their exceptional footwear. The yarn for all their products is made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. To date, they have repurposed more than 179 million single-use plastic bottles and over 629,000 pounds of ocean-bound marine plastic. But that’s not all—they also incorporate algae-based foam into their products. As global temperatures rise, algae blooms are expanding rapidly, disrupting ecological balance. Rothy’s chose to use algae-based foam to help mitigate this issue, turning a problem into a resource.
Moreover, Rothy’s signature outsoles are made from 35% natural and renewable materials, while their insoles use 30% bio-based material and recycled rubber. There’s still room for improvement, but compared to the majority of materials used in footwear today, Rothy’s sustainable approach is truly outstanding.
Next, let’s discuss Rothy’s factors. As of April 2023, Rothy’s is the world’s first shoe manufacturer to receive LEED Gold and TRUE Zero Waste Platinum certifications. It is also the first factory in China to achieve LEED Zero Waste Certification.
But what do these certifications mean? LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) evaluates buildings’ energy efficiency, water usage, air quality, and sustainable materials. A Gold certification indicates excellence in these areas, promoting a healthier environment and reducing carbon footprints. TRUE Zero Waste Platinum certification means the company diverts at least 90% of waste from landfills, incineration, and the environment. Achieving Platinum status highlights exceptional resource recovery and waste minimization, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Not only is Rothy’s a sustainable company, but their shoe selection is also incredible and definitely on my wishlist for the summer. While their shoes are priced around $155 per pair, the investment is worthwhile for long-lasting, truly sustainable footwear. Unlike cheap fast fashion brands that harm the environment, Rothy’s commitment to sustainability makes their products a responsible and stylish choice.
Katie Galimanis 
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