Running shoes that offset CO2 emissions by tree planting – Part 3

At Mizuno, we aim to become "Carbon neutral by 2050" in order to build a sustainable society.

As part of these efforts, we have developed the “WAVE NEO COLLECTION” with the aim of creating shoes that reduce environmental impact while maintaining the functions of Mizuno performance running shoes. For Part 3 of this initiative, Mizuno has just launched “MIZUNO NEO VISTA.”

Approximately 60% of the materials used for the upper and the sole of “MIZUNO NEO VISTA” have a low environmental impact, such as recycled polyester and plant-derived, water-soluble prints. Compared to if a shoe with the same design was made entirely out of petroleum-based materials and the upper materials were dyed, CO2 emissions have been reduced by approximately 17%. Furthermore, for the first time, we have used a material made by collecting algae, a source of negative environmental impact, and combining it with existing materials, for the insole.

In addition, since the launch of “NEO COLLECTION” in 2022, with the aim of absorbing CO2 emitted during the product life cycle of these shoes, we have continuously engaged in tree planting activities in cooperation with the United States National Forest Foundation. We are doing the same for the “MIZUNO NEO VISTA” and have newly planted approximately 100,000 trees. According to the reforestation report by National Forest Foundation, “That is equivalent to removing more than 20,600 cars off the road for one year”^*1

*1　source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

This latest planting brings our total number of trees planted in relation to the “NEO COLLECTION” to over 260,000. These trees will continue to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere for nearly 100 years.

We continue to take on the challenge of realizing a sustainable society and aim to protect the rich global environment where people can enjoy sports, and pass it on to the next generation.