Skechers announced it has created Our Planet Matters collection of sustainable men’s women’s and kids products using recycled materials. It also announced a partnership with The Nature Conservancy that includes a multi-year commitment, contributing a minimum of $800,000 to help the organization.
“As a global lifestyle brand, we have a wonderful opportunity to encourage consumers of every age to become more environmentally conscious in their daily lives. And Our Planet Matters is a natural step in that direction,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers. “These styles enable people of all ages to wear many of our popular designs in recycled materials—an easy, practical way to start helping our planet. From Our Planet Matters to partnering for a purpose alongside The Nature Conservancy, we look forward to improving our sustainability as we find new ways to innovate our business operations and our next generation of product.”
Skechers’ partnership with The Nature Conservancy will help fund the organization’s mission, which encompasses global efforts such as reforestation initiatives that align with the Skechers’ longstanding commitment to reducing tree harvesting and emissions through packaging. A 2020 Sourcing Journal Sustaining Voices honoree, Skechers uses recyclable cartons at its factories and distribution centers and environmentally friendly packaging for its products, from the use of soy- and water-based ink and recyclable foot forms and tissue paper, to a ninety-nine percent reduction in plastic since 2016. Ninety-nine percent of Skechers’ shoeboxes meet the FSC standard for responsible sources, and the company regularly ensures that its materials are FSC-certified, recycled or ethically harvested.
At its two key corporate headquarters in Manhattan Beach, Skechers uses 30 percent and 48 percent of its energy from the sun—with up to 34 percent of solar energy use anticipated on Skechers’ upcoming buildings. The company also plans to expand its corporate headquarters as LEED-Certified Gold facilities.
“We are facing a climate and biodiversity crisis and the window to act is closing quickly. Each one of us has the power to make real change happen, one small step at a time. Together with partners like Skechers, we can inspire millions of people around the world to take action for the planet, because our lives depend on it,” said Jennifer Hoyer, global director of cause marketing & brand partnerships, The Nature Conservancy. “We are grateful to work alongside a partner like Skechers, with a history of helping families impacted by hurricanes, fires and other natural disasters—many of which continue to increase due to our changing climate. Our Planet Matters shoes provide environmentally conscious supporters with an option to help protect our planet.”
Photo courtesy Skechers
