OrthoLite launches zero-waste initiative

OrthoLite, the US-based leading manufacturer of comfort and performance insoles, announces its Zero Waste Initiative, which is one of several initiatives set to be unveiled in 2021.

OrthoLite is an insole provider for over 350 footwear companies globally, spanning all categories—athletic, running, comfort, golf, lifestyle, and fashion, and its insoles are used in over 500 million pairs of shoes per year. OrthoLite said that their dedication to sustainable, circular solutions has a tremendous and demonstrable global impact.

Ortholite said that Zero waste is an important step toward pollution reduction and natural system regeneration, both of which are key aspects of circular, long-term solutions. This commitment involves an investment in a unique production system that goes beyond typical LEAN manufacturing requirements in terms of waste avoidance and management. It also includes Ortholite’s involvement in the Higg Index, which allows the firm to publicly disclose its progress and encourage other manufacturers to do the same.

Glenn Barrett, OrthoLite’s founder, and CEO, said that their goal is to not just reduce their own environmental impact, but also to lead the whole footwear industry in doing so. Environmental sustainability is a major area of concentration for their organization. Their innovation team is working on climate-friendly goods and development, and their C-suite is stepping up support for climate-friendly and sustainable projects. OrthoLite’s dedication to sustainable best practices may have a huge impact through its network of brand partners and global supply chain.

Since its inception 25 years ago with recycled rubber insoles, the firm has made sustainability a core principle. OrthoLite insoles contain at least 5% recycled rubber, preventing over 300 metric tonnes of rubber waste from entering landfills each year. Additional recycling and efficiency measures have prevented 200 tonnes of foam waste from being disposed of in landfills.

OrthoLite’s current investments include: in-house recycling facilities to optimize the supply chain from end to end by capturing and repurposing all waste material to close the loop on post-production waste; To use bio-oil made from castor beans to minimize petroleum consumption and utilize fewer natural resources; On-site wastewater treatment at its global operations; reusable shipping boxes through its Blue Box Program; Providing recycling stations for staff to dispose of cans, glass, and paper safely.

It began using the Higg Index auditing method in 2019 across seven major workstreams at its plants to monitor and improve environmental, labor, and social standards in its factories.

Barrett added that their worldwide team will remain fully committed to advancing footwear sustainability, including efficiency, sourcing and supply, and industrial recycling. With their increased commitment, OrthoLite’s global reach with their brands, factories, and suppliers generates a tremendous ripple effect. This is not an easy road to take, but it is unquestionably the correct one as they embark on the next 25 years. And they’re excited to accelerate good change by investing in and implementing circular solutions with their global supply chain and brand partners.