Pangaia and Zellerfeld have joined forces to introduce on-demand 3D printed sneakers, crafted from a single material that can be melted down and reused at the end of its lifecycle.
Dubbed the ‘Absolute Sneaker’, the footwear replaces the multitude of materials typically found in sneakers (usually around 40) with just one – thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), the sole material compatible with Zellerfeld’s advanced 3D printing technology. While TPU can already be recycled into new sneakers, Pangaia and Zellerfeld are also working on developing a renewable alternative that reduces waste and eliminates reliance on fossil fuel-derived ingredients.
By embracing on-demand production, the collaboration seeks to minimise waste, reduce carbon footprint, and establish a circular economy in the sneaker industry. This partnership showcases a significant step towards sustainable footwear manufacturing, challenging traditional practices while setting an ambitious standard for environmental responsibility.
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