All carbon footprints

What’s the carbon footprint of a running shoe?

The average running shoe emits
10.50-25.00 kg CO₂e

Available to measure with Arbor’s platform
The carbon footprint of running shoes ranges from approximately 10.5 to 25 kg CO₂e per pair, highlighting their significant environmental impact. Understanding what contributes to these emissions is essential for brands aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of footwear and promote more sustainable manufacturing practices.
Why do product carbon footprints (PCFs) matter?
Carbon Equivalent Calculator

What is a running shoe's carbon footprint equivalent to?

Using Arbor’s Carbon Equivalent Calculator, let’s see what the average a running shoe’s carbon emissions are equivalent to, assuming an average of 17.75 kg CO2e.

How can you reduce a running shoe's carbon footprint?

Here are 3 ways you can lower the carbon or decarbonize your a running shoe’s carbon footprint.

Sustainable Materials

Choose eco-friendly materials like recycled plastics or natural fibers.

Material Optimization

Optimize manufacturing processes to reduce energy consumption and emissions.

Material Efficiency

Implement local manufacturing to minimize transportation emissions.

Arbor's platform

Want to measure the carbon footprint of your running shoe?

We make product-level carbon accounting simple, reliable, and tailored to footwear.

Running Shoe
Manage
Running Shoe
Carbon footprint
17.75 kg CO₂e
Versions & Prototypes
Versions
Carbon footprint
Running Shoe
Active
17.75 kg CO₂e
Running Shoe 2024
17.75 kg CO₂e
Running Shoe 2023
17.75 kg CO₂e
Prototypes
Carbon footprint
Running Shoe - 20% Recycled
17.75 kg CO₂e

FAQs

What is the carbon footprint of a running shoe?

The carbon footprint of a running shoe typically falls between 10.5 and 25 kg CO2e. On average, a running shoe contributes around 17.75 kg CO2e to the environment. This includes manufacturing, transportation, and material processing impacts.

How much CO₂ does a running shoe emit?

A typical running shoe produces around 17.75 kg CO₂e during its lifecycle. The emissions can vary from 10.50 to 25.00 kg CO₂e depending on factors like materials and manufacturing processes, but on average, it is quite a substantial footprint for an everyday item.

What are the main sources of emissions from a running shoe?

The main sources of emissions in running shoes include manufacturing, which accounts for around 17.75 kg CO2e, especially due to material production and assembly. Transportation also plays a significant role, adding to the overall footprint. These factors contribute to the total emissions, with a typical range between 10.50 and 25.00 kg CO2e.

How do I calculate the carbon footprint of a running shoe?

Arbor provides the best method to calculate the carbon footprint of a running shoe, but you can also use emission factors and follow life cycle assessment standards. Typically, a running shoe's footprint ranges from 10.50 to 25.00 kg CO2e, with an average around 17.75 kg CO2e, considering materials, manufacturing, and transportation.

Is a running shoe sustainable?

Running shoes' sustainability varies based on materials and manufacturing, but on average they produce around 17.75 kg CO2e. Some brands are working towards eco-friendly options, reducing environmental impact. Choosing shoes made from recycled or sustainable materials can help lower your carbon footprint.

How can companies reduce the carbon footprint of a running shoe?

Companies can cut the carbon footprint of running shoes by using sustainable materials like recycled plastics and designing for durability. Opting for eco-friendly manufacturing processes also helps. On average, reducing emissions by focusing on these areas can lower the footprint to around 17.75 kg CO2e per pair.

Are running shoes bad for the environment?

Running shoes can have a notable environmental impact, with a carbon footprint ranging from 10.50 to 25.00 kg CO2e depending on materials and manufacturing processes. The average impact is approximately 17.75 kg CO2e, mainly due to production and transportation. Choosing eco-friendly brands can help reduce this footprint.

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