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If you’re on the market for new footwear, why not try environmentally friendly shoes. With sneakers, flats, heels, and other designs available, there’s a style on the market that’s right for you. You don’t need to give up style and comfort in order to become a friend of the Earth.

The term “environmentally friendly shoes” often brings to mind images of Birkenstocks or moccasins. This should not be the case, because modern eco-friendly shoes don’t sacrifice style for their lower carbon footprint.

Environmentally-friendly shoes are made of organic or recycled materials. Their linings can be made from bamboo or recycled yarn. The outer layer of the shoe may be made from hemp, organic bamboo, or any other sustainable material. Recycled tires can be made into soles, just as recycled plastic products can be made into laces.

There are several companies that manufacture environmentally-friendly shoes. These companies make a conscious effort to decrease their carbon footprint with regards to their operations, including their processing, manufacturing, and shipping activities. Even large companies are working toward decreasing their carbon emissions by restructuring their processing methods in order to conserve energy.

Consumers should be well informed and should read the labels to find out whether the pair of shoes they’re considering buying are environmentally friendly. The environmental impact of the footwear is included on some labels. Some manufacturers have a rating system with regard to the carbon footprint a pair has. If the product is said to be organic, then it should have a USDA label. This label certifies that the footwear was made from natural materials and was processed wtihout chemicals. The health of the ecosystem where the sources of materials were grown will also be considered.

Many people also take fair trade into account when they select shoes. Farmers are among the worst treated professionals in the world. “Fair trade” means good working conditions, fair wages, and reasonable treatment of the environment. Fair trade also gives farmers the freedom to choose whom to trade their goods with. Further, toxic pesticides and GMOs are prohibited in the production of fair trade products.

Most environment ally friendly shoe manufacturers use minimal and biodegradable packaging to keep their carbon footprint low. Additionally, some companies set aside part of their profits to donate to organizations that help the environment.

You can go online and do your research to find out where you can buy green footwear. Some retail stores have entire “green lines” because of the demand for such products. Buying and using environmentally-friendly shoes is one easy way to help care for our planet.

About the author: Megan Barlow helps others learn to live cleaner lives. Find out more about sustainable living at her blog on Sustainable and Resourceful Living.

Original Article Environmentally Friendly Shoes.