A new crop of footwear brands is bringing sustainability to Europe’s sneaker market. Portuguese footwear brand WAYZ is making sneakers exclusively from local producers with eco-friendly materials at ethical factories; Italy’s Koio is aiming to be the “world’s first regenerative luxury footwear brand” by sourcing leather from regenerative farms, which slow—and even reverse—climate change; and the U.K.’s Clark’s has debuted vegan versions of its classic styles. For years, Gen Z and Millennials have been going zero waste and finding ways to live an eco-friendly lifestyle—and seeking more sustainable ways to stay in fashion. Previously, we told you how Millennials’ secondhand shopping habits were starting to transform the luxury retail industry, and it made an even bigger impact last year. Despite the other major issues they’re facing today, climate change is still a priority for young consumers and it’s something that’s reflected in their buying habits and purchases too. (Fashion United)
