We’re kicking off this weeks Sustainable Brands Spotlight with sports brand adidas and their commitment to sustainability through the use of recycled polyester in their products. They’re one of the biggest names in sports brands second only to Nike in overall sales.

History of the Brand: Founded in 1949 by Adolf Dassler, adidas has grown to become one of the most iconic and recognizable sportswear brands in the world. The brand’s name is a combination of its founder’s nickname, Adi, and the first three letters of his last name. adidas has a rich history of innovation and success in the world of sports, from providing footwear for Jesse Owens at the 1936 Olympics to being the first brand to introduce screw-in studs for football boots. Today, adidas continues to be a leader in the industry, known for its cutting-edge designs, commitment to performance, and now, its dedication to sustainability.

Adidas and Recycled Polyester: Adidas has been a trailblazer in the sports industry when it comes to sustainability. One of their significant initiatives is the use of recycled polyester in their apparel and footwear. Polyester is a common material in sportswear due to its durability and moisture-wicking properties. However, traditional polyester is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels and has a significant environmental impact.

By using recycled polyester, adidas is able to reduce their reliance on virgin polyester and decrease the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. According to adidas, they have saved over 40 million plastic bottles from ending up in landfills by using recycled polyester in their products. This commitment to sustainability aligns with their goal to end plastic waste.

Environmental Impact: The production of recycled polyester has a lower environmental impact compared to virgin polyester. According to a study by the Textile Exchange, using recycled polyester instead of virgin polyester can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% and carbon emissions by up to 20%. Additionally, using recycled polyester helps divert plastic waste from landfills and oceans, contributing to a cleaner environment.

The Future of Sustainable Sportswear: Adidas’ use of recycled polyester is just one step towards a more sustainable future for sportswear. As of 2024, adidas exclusively uses recycled polyester in all its products, a commitment that aligns with the company’s ambitious goals to reduce its environmental footprint. By leading the way in sustainable practices, adidas is inspiring other brands to follow suit and prioritize environmental stewardship. These are some of the products made with 100% recycled plastic.

adidas Men’s Tiro23 League Pants

Even their iconic track suit is now made with 100% recycled materials. adidas Men’s Sportswear Basic 3-stripes Tricot Track Suit

adidas Women’s Plus Size Essentials Warm-up Slim 3-Stripes Track Top

Adidas’ use of recycled polyester is a testament to their dedication to sustainability. By incorporating recycled materials into their products, adidas is not only reducing their environmental impact but also setting a positive example for the sports industry as a whole. So, next time you lace up your adidas sneakers or gear up for a workout, know that you’re not just sporting top-quality gear but also supporting one of the big brands that’s making a difference.