SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL SOURCING & FOOTWEAR DEVELOPMENT
KOQOS 2021/2022
Based on my personal interest in sustainable product design and footwear innovation, I set out to see what it takes to develop and produce a more sustainable pair of sneakers. In the span of two years, I created a blog and brand, conducted interviews with industry professionals, and worked with material suppliers, product developers and production facilities throughout Europe to develop a pair of sustainable sneakers.
After initial research into the topic of sustainability in the footwear industry, during an internship at a local footwear company, I decided to continue this research on my own. Through blog articles and different media channels, I shared my findings with like-minded individuals. I met with natural rubber and foam suppliers. I tested leather and polyester alternatives. And at the same time, I was working on creating a brand, logo, registering trademarks and creating the intial design sketches for the shoe I envisioned.
With this project, my goal was to step away from research and experience the product development and sustainable innovation process hands-on, to truly understand the challenges that arise when creating a more sustainable sneaker. Therefore, I worked with various product developers and production facilities in Portugal to create a series of wearable prototypes, as well as a box design that is aligned with the brand concept.
Learn more about this project? Ready to work together? Let’s have a chat!
info@koqos.com
The Hague, The Netherlands