Footwears Thinking Green~ Through Dalal's Innovation
How many of us purchased attractive shoes to throw them away when we discovered they weren't comfortable? Shoes contribute to environmental issues because they are non-biodegradable and wind up in landfills and the ocean. First cousins Parth (31) and Karishma Dalal (39), both from Surat, decided to take action after overhearing a casual comment about children throwing away shoes after only a few years. After nearly two years of research, the two launched "Reroute," a company in 2023 that uses waste plastic bottles and sugarcane residue as raw materials to make sustainable shoes.
Reroute shoes are comfortable, and fashionable, and have gained popularity since their launch. The pair launched their business with a startup capital of Rs 10 lakh. They mostly operate on Instagram and are popular among Gen Z due to their brand's design.
A Perfect Ubringing ~
Karishma and Parth Dalal
(Source: Instagram Photos)
Being the only male in the family, Parth was the cherished golden child of the first cousins who grew up in a big joint family in Surat. "I grew up in a house full of people, and it was an amazing time," he remembers. Since our family has been in business for several generations, we were raised in an environment that values entrepreneurship. Karishma, who had always had an interest in arts and crafts, studied fashion design while Parth studied medicine. To complete his master's degree in pharmaceutical science at Long Island University, Parth traveled to the US in 2016. Additionally, he worked with Johnson & Johnson, where he gained a variety of abilities, including an understanding of sourcing and supply networks.
The cousins were raised in a socially conscious household that consistently disapproved of trash. "My father was very socially conscious, and he always helped out others, be it the plague or floods," Parth continues. He always found it annoying when trash clogged beaches, and he talked about recycling waste to help the environment.
Leading The Way in Innovation ~
Beauty and Comfort At Its Best!
(Source: Google Images)
The Indian footwear market is fiercely competitive, with every retailer from Chandni Chowk to Chor Bazaar employing leather or synthetic rubber to keep prices down. This meant that innovation was desperately needed. These materials are difficult to break down when thrown out and require a lot of water for processing. "We invested in R and D," Karishma continues. For months, members of our own family used our items and provided feedback. The development team's basic concept was this: would we purchase these goods if we saw them on the shelf? Following extensive beta testing, the product was released.It required roughly eleven recycled plastic bottles to make each pair of shoes, which were light, breezy, and comfy. At Rs 2999, the young couple received a nice reception from celebs such as Dia Mirza, who encouraged them. Early on, the founders created a good ripple effect by swiftly realizing and connecting with their target group, which consisted of software engineers and doctors who wore shoes all day and recommended the items. "We want to be completely carbon neutral," Parth says. We are moving in an entirely organic path, and our footwear is unique in the Indian footwear market.
An Unorthodox Notion ~
After visiting a plastic processing plant and having numerous conversations about waste and shoes, the young entrepreneurs decided to build their own environmentally beneficial products. This was sometime around COVID. Following two years of study, they developed a solution that was both readily available and environmentally friendly. Parth discovered slag from sugarcane, one of the most important crops in India, and collaborated with a Brazilian resin supplier to create the first sugarcane EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) copolymer. Currently, their focus is on expanding their markets, both in India and abroad. The co-founder states, “My top priority is expanding to the US as the sustainability market is better established there. In India, we aim to increase our outreach as we are the only ones who are using a carbon-negative outsole.”
Takeaway ~ Why To Use Sustainable or Eco-friendly Shoes ~
Reduces the amount of waste and carbon footprint
Because they utilize less plastic, shoes made of sustainable materials dramatically reduce pollution in our environment. Leather, glass beads, suedette, thread, and other materials are just a few of the materials that make up circular fashion. Ecological footwear can be created with upcycled sandals made from waste materials like denim, jute, cotton, and brocade. These sandals require little to no chemical treatment and have a tiny carbon impact.
Supports local businesses
It is often noticed eco-friendly product attracts consumers to buy sustainable footwear, which in turn creates a market for the manufacture, use, and distribution of such goods. It encourages all small enterprises to recycle materials and cut back on CO2 emissions to ensure sustainability. Small and local businesses are often concerned about the environment, which is why they look for more environmentally friendly ways to produce their goods.
Health Benefits
Wearing sustainable shoes is good for the environment and your health. Many sandals and flats are made to be supportive and comfortable, which helps shield feet from common issues like blisters and corns. Breathable fabrics are usually used in these shoes to keep your feet dry and cool.
In a nutshell, investing in environmentally friendly footwear has several advantages that can protect the environment and the economy. You may feel good for choosing sandals that are made using ethical and thoughtful materials. Additionally, you are making a decision that will have a big impact on your neighborhood and the environment.
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