40 Sandals Are More Eco-friendly – 5/6

Estrella Palacios

Jonathan Lashley

English 101

26 April 2024

Sandals Are More Eco-Friendly

Sandals have been a popular choice of footwear for centuries due to their practicality and versatility. However, in recent years, they have gained a new advantage over other types of shoes, particularly tennis shoes, when it comes to their environmental impact. The production and disposal of tennis shoes have been found to be harmful to the environment, whereas sandals are considered an eco-friendly option. In this essay, we will delve into the reasons why sandals are a better choice for the environment and why we should consider incorporating them into our daily lives.

One of the primary reasons why sandals are more environmentally friendly than tennis shoes is that they require fewer resources to produce. “Tennis shoes are complex products that require a significant amount of energy, raw materials, and chemicals during their manufacturing process (Mclaughlin 2024).” This includes the production of rubber, plastic, and other synthetic materials, which are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. On the other hand, sandals are typically made from natural materials such as leather, hemp, and recycled materials, which have a lower environmental impact and can be recycled or biodegraded after use (Muir 2023).” Additionally, the production of sandals generates less waste and pollution compared to tennis shoes, making them a better choice for the planet, like how they did in the BC regions of Greece and ancient Roman times.

In ancient Greece, sandals were an essential part of everyday attire worn by people from all walks of life. The design and material of the sandals varied depending on the wearer’s social status, with simple leather sandals worn by commoners and more elaborate designs adorned by the elite. Sandals were made of natural substances like straw, papyrus, palm fiber, wood, stone, and textiles. “Similarly, in ancient Rome, sandals were worn by soldiers, merchants, and citizens alike, reflecting the practical and versatile nature of this footwear (Mayra 2024).”

In some indigenous cultures, sandals represent not just footwear but their heritage and identity. These sandals, intricately woven with traditional patterns and colors, are a testament to the rich cultural history of these communities. Handmade using techniques passed down through generations, these sandals hold a deep cultural significance, connecting the wearer to their roots and traditions. While sandals are often associated with warm climates and leisure activities, they also serve practical purposes in various occupational and recreational settings. For instance, farmers and laborers wear sandals in many agricultural communities to navigate muddy terrain and protect their feet from sharp objects while working in the fields. The open design of sandals allows for ventilation, making them suitable for long hours of physical labor in hot and humid conditions.

Contrary to popular belief, sandals are not just for leisurely walks on the beach. They are also practical for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, water sports, and farming. These sandals are designed with durable materials, rugged soles, and adjustable straps, which provide stability and protection in rugged environments. Equipped with water drainage, toe protection, and enhanced traction, they are ideal for traversing various terrains and water bodies, making them a versatile choice for the adventurous. Sandals from today might not be used the same way as in BC regions, but they are still in the same category of outdoor and physical activities.

Moreover, sandals provide comfort and well-being to our feet and minds. The designs are constructed to ensure optimal support, comfort, and stability, catering to the natural course of our feet (Desire 2023).” They are eco-friendly to our environment and our feet’ health. “Unlike shoes, they have been shown that they squeeze our feet and give us a greater possibility of getting fungus, also something called athlete’s foot (Jaliman 2022).” In sustainability and environmental consciousness, “the design and materials used in sandals play a crucial role in minimizing the ecological impact of footwear production (Desire 2023).”

Traditional sandals made from natural fibers such as jute, hemp, and cork offer eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic materials, reducing the carbon footprint associated with mass-produced footwear. Furthermore, the resurgence of artisanal craftsmanship and ethical sourcing has led to the revival of handmade sandals crafted by skilled artisans using sustainable practices and locally sourced materials. In today’s world, tennis shoes are worn around the world, in addition to sandals.

On the other hand, tennis shoes, also known as sneakers, are famous footwear for many individuals due to their comfort and versatility. However, these shoes’ excessive production and disposal have led to a significant environmental issue, with many discarded pairs ending up in landfills.” The materials used in the production of tennis shoes, such as rubber, foam, and synthetic fabrics, take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to the growing problem of waste accumulation in landfills. Some of the material can last up to 1000 years (Vasarhelyi 2023).” As we strive for a more sustainable future, the development of eco-conscious sandals is a step in the right direction. These sandals, made from recycled rubber, plastic, and other post-consumer waste, are a testament to the innovative approaches to sustainable footwear. “Unlike tennis shoes, sandals are not as mass-produced. It is easy for your fee to be green (West 2018).”  By choosing these sandals, we reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the demand for environmentally friendly products and ethical manufacturing practices, driving positive change within the footwear industry.

In conclusion, while sandals may not be the first choice for everyone, they are certainly an eco-friendly option compared to tennis shoes. Their use of natural materials, lower resource consumption, and minimal environmental impact make them an ideal choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Additionally, sandals have a rich cultural history and serve practical purposes in various settings, from agriculture to outdoor activities. With the revival of artisanal craftsmanship and ethical sourcing, the demand for handmade, sustainable sandals is on the rise. It’s time to consider incorporating sandals into our daily lives and make a positive impact on the environment.

Work Cited

Desire, Sole. “The Perfect Blend of Style and Comfort: Exploring the World of Comfort Sandals.” Sole Desire Shoes, 20 Jun. 2023, soledesire.com/blogs/news/the-perfect-blend-of-style-and-comfort-exploring-the-world-of-comfort-sandals-1. Accessed 3 Apr. 2024.

Jaliman, Debra. “Myths and Facts About Athlete’s Foot.” WebMD, 20 Dec. 2022, www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/athletes-foot-myths. Accessed 3 Apr. 2024.

McLoughlin, Danny. “All Eco Sneakers Do Is Kill The Planet a Little Bit Slower [Study].” RunRepeat, 1 Mar. 2024, runrepeat.com/eco-sneakers-research. Accessed 3 Apr. 2024.

Muir, Rosamund. “WHY SHOE SUSTAINABILITY IS IMPORTANT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT.” Rosamund Muir London, 15 Aug. 2023, www.rosamundmuir.com/news/why-shoe-sustainability-is-important-for-the-environment/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2024.

Vasarhelyi, Kayla. “The Impact of Plastic on Climate Change.” Environment Center, 15 Dec. 2023, www.colorado.edu/ecenter/2023/12/15/impact-plastic-climate-change. Accessed 3 Apr. 2024.