Sustainability and innovation are now vital pillars for the fashion industry as the world becomes increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of consumerism. Onitsuka Tiger, the renowned Japanese footwear brand, releases the Mexico 66 CACTFUL collection, a line of sneakers that combines style and eco-friendliness.
Onitsuka Tiger has collaborated with Desserto, a Mexican company known for creating vegan and ethical alternatives to leather. Together, they have developed a cactus-derived material called CACTFUL bio-material, which constitutes over 20% of the shoe’s upper. This plant-based vegan leather is made from Mexican cactus fibres and undergoes a production process that minimizes its environmental impact.
The Onitsuka Tiger sustainability efforts
Firstly, it drastically reduces CO2 emissions during manufacturing. It decreases its carbon footprint by approximately 80% compared to conventional genuine leather. Moreover, this eco-friendly material does not contain harmful chemicals like phthalates or PVC, making it a safer and more sustainable option. Additionally, it consumes less water during production, contributing to water conservation efforts.
The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 CACTFUL collection features five vibrant custom colours that highlight the soft and supple texture unique to the cactus-derived material. This innovation allows for bold and pastel shades that would be difficult to achieve with genuine leather, adding a touch of playfulness to the iconic Onitsuka Tiger silhouette.
Onitsuka Tiger’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the shoe’s upper part. The brand also utilizes recycled materials for other components, such as the sock liner and shoelaces, further reducing its environmental impact and promoting circularity in the fashion industry.
A Greener Future for the Fashion Industry
While sustainability gains traction in the fashion world, Onitsuka Tiger’s Mexico 66 CACTFUL collection demonstrates that eco-friendly practices need not compromise style, comfort, or performance. The brand’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining its iconic designs sets an example for other fashion houses to follow.
Onitsuka Tiger’s Mexico 66 CACTFUL collection is a commendable stride towards sustainable fashion. The brand showcases its commitment to environmental responsibility without sacrificing quality or style by utilising cactus-derived materials and incorporating recycled components. The future of fashion is moving towards a greener future as more fashion companies embrace eco-friendly practices.
