Sneakers are popular worldwide but their disposal creates non-biodegradable waste. However, sneakers can be recycled and reused through programs that recycle rubber soles, leather, and synthetic uppers. The recycled material can be used for sports surfaces and playgrounds. Sneakers can also be donated to charity or repaired for reuse.
The comfort of sneakers and sports shoes is appreciated all over the world. For this reason, hundreds of pairs of sneakers are constantly worn down to the tread. Not to mention, due to its popularity around the world, sneakers are often used as fashion footwear, and can be discarded and replaced when fashion changes. Since sneakers are made, for the most part, from rubber and other synthetic materials, the disposal of these shoes can create a large volume of non-biodegradable waste.
Although many pairs of sneakers will eventually end up in landfills, it is possible to reuse or recycle these shoes. There are a number of programs that offer assistance or recycle athletic shoes, tennis shoes, and other types of sneakers. In general, the rubber sole of a shoe is the most obviously recyclable part of the shoe. However, leather and synthetic uppers can also be recycled.
There are certain parts of a shoe that cannot be recycled and typically need to be removed before the recycling process can begin. Metal eyelets used to reinforce shoelace holes, for example, should be removed before recycling. Cleats and spikes should also be removed from shoes, along with any other metal parts. Some sneakers or other types of sports shoes contain lights or strips of reflective material that must also be removed before recycling. In addition, the shoes must be dry and clean so as not to contaminate the material during the recycling process.
The most common process by which sneakers are recycled is by grinding them up to make a new material. This may mean grinding up all recyclable material, including rubber, leather, and other synthetic materials to make a flexible foam or rubber-like substance. On the other hand, the rubber parts of the shoe can be ground separately to make a new rubber. Along the way, the ground material is likely to be filtered to remove impurities, resulting in a higher quality product.
The final product of recycled sneakers is a synthetic material that, depending on its malleability, can be used as a surface on synthetic sports fields, tennis courts, running tracks, and other sports or gym surfaces. This seems like a fitting end to a shoe that has likely been worn on such a surface. Another use for material made from recycled sneakers is as a protective surface used to cover pavement and other hard surfaces on playgrounds. The semi-soft rubberized material helps prevent injuries that might otherwise occur when a child bumps into a metal jungle gym bar or falls to the ground.
Those who are interested in recycling their sneakers can easily find information on the Internet. Local public works groups that organize sneaker recycling events may be located near one’s home, and often work in partnership with larger companies that have the means for large-scale recycling programs. Shoes that are still usable can be donated to charity. Often, sneakers can be repaired and reused, either by the original owner or by someone else. In any case, there are a number of ways to dispose of used shoes other than simply throwing them away.
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