In our third Earth Day Plastics vs Planet series, we spotlight the long-running partnership between Adidas and Parley for the Oceans.
Since 2015, Adidas has been sprinting ahead in the race against ocean plastic pollution through its partnership with Parley for the Oceans. It’s an issue which is critical to ocean and planetary health – The Ellen McArthur Foundation predicts that by 2050, our oceans will contain more plastic than fish! Their innovative approach saw the birth of the first-ever running shoe crafted from upcycled ocean plastic, marking a pivotal moment in sustainable footwear.
In 2017, Adidas and Parley launched ‘Run for the Oceans’, a global movement that inspired citizens worldwide to lace up for a cause. Participants logged their runs on the Adidas running app, with every 10 minutes of running translating into the removal of plastic waste from coastal communities, up to an impressive 500,000 lbs. This initiative not only tackled environmental challenges but also encouraged personal fitness, showcasing the power of collective action.
In addition to their work with Parley, they Teamed up with Allbirds, and introduced the “Futurecraft Footprint” sneaker, boasting one of the lowest carbon footprints in the industry, signalling a shift towards circular economy principles.
Although Adidas’s partnership with Parley has just this month come to a close, its legacy resonates. The collaboration exemplifies a strong sustainability platform, engaging stakeholders and citizens alike in meaningful ways, collaborating with their competitors and making it a core part of their brand DNA. Through their products and events, Adidas has proven that sustainability isn’t just a trend but a commitment to a better future.
Their efforts are a great case study in being a citizen brand – turning challenges like plastic pollution into opportunities for innovation and citizen and community engagement.