Sportswear giant PUMA is pushing its sustainability credentials with a new range of products that are either recyclable or biodegradable. Called InCycle, the "closed-loop" collection includes footwear, apparel and accessories that, rather than being tossed in the garbage at the end of their life-cycle, can be returned under the company's "Bring Me Back" program.
The biodegradable components of the InCycle line include materials that can be broken down by microorganisms into biological nutrients. One of the prerequisites for the range, which is rated Basic under the Crdale to Cradle certification standard, is that the raw materials are organic fibers without toxic materials and follow certain international standards for composting to minimize their environmental impact. The recyclable products, in turn, are made with metals, textiles and plastic than can be reused to make other products.
Among the biodegradable InCycle products are the fully compostable Basket Tee and the Basket lifestyle sneaker, which has an upper made from a mix of organic cotton and linen while the sole is composed of the biodegradable plastic APINATbio – a new biodegradable material that can be shredded into its component materials before being composted into natural humus.
The recyclables include the PUMA Backpack and the PUMA Track Jacket. The backpack is made of polypropylene which can be broken down to the original substance while the jacket is made from recycled polyester deriving from used PET bottles. Both use homogenous materials to ensure they are fully recyclable, including the zipper. The jacket can also be converted back into polyester granulate, which can be used as secondary raw material for other products made of recycled polyester.
The InCycle collection will hit PUMA stores worldwide this month, coinciding with the launch of the Bring me Back program. Carried out in conjunction with global recycling company I:CO, the program will facilitate composting or recycling of the products through the use of in-store recycling bins. Customers can also bring back products from other brands.
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