Gucci, in particular has taken the lead in this endeavor by launching Sustainable Soles as part of the Prefall 2012 Collection. Designed by Creative Director Frida Giannini, Sustainable Soles is a special edition of eco-friendly womens and mens shoes, which will be available at selected Gucci stores worldwide and online (www.gucci.com) from the end of June 2012.
Both the Marola Green ballerinas (for women) and the California Green sneakers (for men), are realized in bio-plastic a biodegradable material in compost which is used as an alternative to petrochemical plastic, and which follows a shorter degradation process compared to traditional industrial plastic, without leaving any waste and therefore creating a much smaller carbon footprint.
Available in the polished tones of blush, taupe and black with an interlocking G in white, the Marola Green flat ballerina is characterized by cut out details and the GG logo motif. And the California Green sneakers in a low or high top version combine the bio-rubber soles with the upper part in genuine vegetable tanned black calfskin, biologically certified strings and rhodium-plated metal details. Additionally, the green Gucci logo has been designed on a recycled polyester label.