Introduction
Allbirds is a brand renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovative use of natural materials in footwear and apparel. Founded in San Francisco in 2015 by biotech engineer and renewables expert Joey Zwillinger and former footballer Tim Brown, Allbirds quickly became a major player in the footwear industry. The brand’s mission has always been to create environmentally friendly products that don’t compromise on comfort or style.
History of Allbirds
Allbirds was established with the goal of creating a sustainable alternative to traditional footwear. The brand’s first product, the Wool Runner, was launched to great acclaim and was even named “The World’s Most Comfortable Shoes” by Time magazine. Since then, Allbirds has expanded its product line to include a variety of footwear, activewear, and loungewear, all made from eco-friendly materials.
Allbirds Product Line
Footwear Collection
Allbirds offers a range of shoes including the popular Wool Runners, Tree Dashers, and the recently unveiled M0.0nshot sneaker. The M0.0nshot, introduced in 2023, boasts a net footprint of 0.0 kg of CO2 emissions, making it the world’s first net-zero carbon shoe. This sneaker utilizes carbon-negative materials such as regeneratively farmed merino wool, a sugarcane-based EVA foam, and a bioplastic made from methane.
Apparel and Accessories
In addition to footwear, Allbirds has ventured into apparel and accessories. The brand offers a minimalist range of activewear and loungewear, emphasizing sustainable materials like Tencel Lyocell and recycled nylon.
Sustainability Efforts
Allbirds Flight Plan
Allbirds is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint through its ambitious Flight Plan. The brand aims to cut its carbon emissions in half by 2025 and achieve near-zero emissions by 2030. This plan includes measures to use more sustainable materials and improve the efficiency of their production processes. For another example of a company committed to sustainability, read our Spotlight on HiBar: Beauty Products with a Mission.
Material Innovation
Allbirds is known for its innovative use of natural materials. The brand’s shoes are made from Merino wool, Tencel Lyocell, SweetFoam, and Trino, which is a blend of Merino wool and Lyocell. SweetFoam, a bio-based, carbon-negative EVA made from Brazilian sugarcane, is a standout material that has been adopted by over 100 other brands. To learn more about the impact of sustainable materials, read our article on The Importance of Sustainable Packaging.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
Allbirds has made big strides in reducing its carbon footprint. The brand’s efforts have resulted in a 12% reduction in overall emissions in the past year alone (2023). They achieve this by focusing on regenerative agriculture, renewable materials, and responsible energy use.
Three-Step Approach
To tackle climate impact, Allbirds follows a three-step approach: measuring emissions, reducing the footprint, and supporting carbon removal projects. The brand uses its proprietary life cycle assessment (LCA) tool to calculate the carbon footprint of its products, which has been verified by third parties.
Goals for Dec. 2025
By the end of 2025, Allbirds aims to:
- Source 75% of materials from sustainable natural and recycled sources.
- Reduce the carbon footprint of raw materials by 25%.
- Cut raw material use by 25% across all products.
- Double the lifetime of footwear and apparel products.
Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Transparency
Code of Conduct
Allbirds is committed to ensuring safe working conditions, respect for workers, and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes. The brand’s Supplier Code of Conduct is based on ILO Core Labor Standards and requires full compliance with local laws and international standards.
Factory Audits and Evaluations
Allbirds conducts thorough audits of its factories to ensure compliance. Factories are rated based on their risk level, and those that fail to meet standards are not approved for production.
Remediation Efforts
When violations are found, Allbirds implements Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) to address issues and prevent future occurrences. These plans include immediate and preventative actions with set completion dates and responsible persons.
Worker Voice
Allbirds values feedback from factory workers. The brand uses anonymous mobile surveys to gather insights on working conditions, which help in making necessary improvements.
Subcontracting Policies
Allbirds maintains strict controls over subcontracting. Subcontractors must comply with the brand’s Code of Conduct and undergo audits.
Supply Chain Transparency and Traceability
Allbirds is dedicated to transparency in its supply chain. The brand has mapped 100% of its Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers and aims to include all tiers by 2025.
Environmental and Social Policies
Environmental Policy and Program
Allbirds’ environmental policy covers the entire supply chain, ensuring that partners adhere to high environmental standards. The brand focuses on reducing its environmental impact through sustainable practices and innovative materials.
Animal Welfare Policy
Allbirds uses responsibly sourced wool and ensures high standards of animal welfare. The brand’s Animal Welfare Policy is designed to maintain the humane treatment of animals throughout its supply chain.
Human Rights Policy
Allbirds is committed to upholding human rights across its operations and supply chain. The Human Rights Policy outlines the brand’s efforts to respect and promote human rights globally.
Why Consumers Should Care
Impact of Synthetic Materials
The fashion industry’s reliance on synthetic materials, primarily plastics derived from fossil fuels, has significant environmental impacts. Allbirds aims to reduce this dependence by using renewable, natural materials.
Transition to Natural Materials
Allbirds has pioneered the use of natural materials in its products. The brand’s innovations, such as SweetFoam and Plant Leather, demonstrate its commitment to sustainability.
Market Impact
Customer Reception
Allbirds has built a loyal customer base and widespread acclaim for its comfortable and sustainable products. The brand’s minimalist designs and eco-friendly materials have made it a favorite among conscious consumers.
Awards and Recognitions
Allbirds has received numerous awards for its sustainability efforts. The brand’s innovative materials and commitment to transparency have set new standards in the industry.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Allbirds has collaborated with other brands to advance sustainability. Notably, its partnership with Adidas resulted in a low carbon footprint shoe, demonstrating the potential of industry collaboration.
Timeline of Key Milestones
Allbirds has achieved numerous milestones since its founding:
- 2016: Launch of the Wool Runner.
- 2018: Introduction of SweetFoam.
- 2020: Partnership with Adidas and launch of Plant Leather.
- 2023: Introduction of the net-zero carbon M0.0nshot shoe.
Where to Buy Allbirds
- Official Stores and Online Platforms– Allbirds products are available through various channels. Customers can purchase directly from Allbirds’ retail locations or online store.
- Third-Party Retailers– In addition to its own stores, Allbirds partners with select third-party retailers. These partnerships help the brand reach a wider audience while maintaining control over product quality and sustainability standards.
Takeaway
Allbirds has established itself as a leader in sustainable fashion through innovative materials, responsible sourcing, and a strong commitment to reducing its environmental impact. The brand’s efforts to create eco-friendly products without sacrificing style or comfort have set a new standard in the industry.
Allbirds continues to push the boundaries of sustainability in the fashion industry, proving that it is possible to combine purpose and profit. The brand’s dedication to innovation and transparency ensures it remains a favorite among eco-conscious consumers.
FAQs
What makes Allbirds a sustainable brand?
Allbirds is committed to sustainability through the use of natural and renewable materials, reducing carbon emissions, and maintaining ethical supply chain practices. The brand’s products are made from eco-friendly materials like Merino wool, Tencel Lyocell, and SweetFoam, a carbon-negative EVA foam derived from sugarcane.
What is the Allbirds Flight Plan?
The Allbirds Flight Plan is the brand’s ambitious initiative to cut its carbon emissions in half by 2025 and achieve near-zero emissions by 2030. This plan includes using more sustainable materials and improving production efficiency.
What is the M0.0nshot sneaker?
The M0.0nshot sneaker is Allbirds’ groundbreaking shoe with a net-zero carbon footprint. It utilizes carbon-negative materials like regeneratively farmed merino wool, sugarcane-based EVA foam, and bioplastics made from methane.
How does Allbirds ensure the ethical treatment of animals?
Allbirds sources its wool from ZQ-certified farms that adhere to high standards of animal welfare, environmental care, and social responsibility. The brand’s Animal Welfare Policy ensures humane treatment throughout the supply chain.
Where can I buy Allbirds products?
Allbirds products can be purchased directly from their retail locations, online store, and select third-party retailers.
What materials are used in Allbirds products?
Allbirds products are made from sustainable materials such as Merino wool, Tencel Lyocell, SweetFoam, and Trino. These materials are chosen for their eco-friendly properties and minimal environmental impact.
Featured Image Credit: Cody Pickens Photography
