Sustainability of Footwear Industry

The footprint of human is already much larger than our planet's resources can sustain, and on top, the world’s population is expected to grow to about 9 billion by 2050. And that is why it’s important to develop innovation that enhance people's quality of life while consuming less recourses.

As a market leader in many industries, we at Henkel Adhesive Technologies have the chance, and moreover the responsibility to make a lasting impact.  Thus, our vision is to lead with technologies and solutions in adhesives, sealants and functional coatings that will have an impact on solving global environmental and social challenges.

Therefore, Henkel is now focusing on 3 areas to support our customers in achieving their targets.

• CO2/energy saving & dematerialization: CO2 saving/footprint reduction in production and the use phase
• Health & Safety: Enhance safety in production and end-use
• Circular economy: Bio-based or recycled raw materials, compatibility with recycling

Our Approach to Footwear Industry

Based on published data, materials and manufacturing are the biggest contributors to the CO2 footprint of an athletic shoe. Adhesives and chemicals only contribute 1%-3% of the overall CO2 footprint of an athletic shoe, so, the biggest impact that Henkel can have on reducing the CO2 footprint of the full shoe is changing or simplifying the bonding process and/or reduce the amount of energy needed to dry or activate the product.

Portfolio Solutions for Simplified Processes

Henkel have spent the last 5 years creating a portfolio of solutions that reduces the number of manufacturing steps needed to treat and bond the shoe targeting the main applications in the process. With these innovative solutions, our customers can achieve both Manufacturing Efficiency and Sustainability benefits.

1. One side adhesive

Upgraded one component water based adhesive and primer to enable the one side adhesive process for both stock fitting and assembly.

The new system allows the adhesive layer on the midsole to be removed, and the adhesive can be either applied manually or through a spray application.  In our testing, we have shown that this solution works for a wide range of midsole and upper materials

2. Non-UV Primer

Newly developed Semi-water based non-UV primer that can be also sprayed or be applied manually. 

Eliminating the UV Irradiation reduces energy usage in the line, while also improving quality through shrinkage reduction of more sensitive midsole materials.

Let’s find out all the best solutions for footwear manufacturing that will bring big benefits for your business. Reach us now!