From Waste to Fashion: The Sneaker Revolution Taking on Plastic Pollution!

In 2017, the spark of an idea ignited in the mind of Ashay Bhave, a 24-year-old student then immersed in his business administration studies. An endeavor began to brew - one that would see plastic bottles and bags transformed into trendy, ethical sneakers, making a bold stand against the rampant plastic pollution plaguing the planet. With a resolute gaze on the daunting issue of 100 billion plastic bags inflicting fatal harm upon 100,000 marine creatures annually, Ashay's mission evolved. For two relentless years, he did research and his experiments finally led to the creation of a fabric from plastic waste that mimicked the texture of leather. Ashay’s amazing idea was reflected on his website - a shoe that not only looked like its leather counterpart but functioned just as well. And thus, in 2021, the curtain rose on Thaely - aptly named after the Hindi term for "plastic bag."  The journey involved purchasing plastic waste from recycling facilities, carefully cleansing and sanitizing the material, then shaping it into sheets that were fused together under heat and pressure. Thaely's shoes comprises recycled plastic bottles and 10 repurposed bags, a symbol of transformation from waste to fashion. A tally of 48,000 discarded bottles and 50,000 carry bags has been given new life through this initiative. In a remarkable twist, Thaely extends a discount to customers who trade in their well-worn sneakers for fresh pairs - a virtuous cycle, indeed. With a horizon that stretches beyond India's borders, Ashay's gaze is set on Dubai, Europe, America, and Australia. The mission is global - to lace the world in conscientious, eco-conscious footwear that whispers tales of change and evolution with every step taken.