As a whole, the footwear industry is responsible for1.4 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Then theres the sneaker segment, whichif it was a countrywould be the17th largest polluterin the world.

As a consumer, this reality can make finding a sustainable pair of running shoes tricky.

alt

Are factories audited by a third party?

Are garment professionals paid a living wage?

These are questions that I start with when researching transparency.

photo of ohio state’s cotie mchmahon wearing jersey number 32 and shooting a basketball

Once you find a match that aligns with your values, hit that buy now button.

Taking proper care of your sneakers not only benefits the planetit also saves you money.

Because as we all know, these shoes arent cheap.

photo of audi crooks shooting a basketball and hannah hidalgo holding a basketball in hand

First, resist the urge to wear your running shoes outside of your workouts.

), but also when youre not.

Heres another pro tip: Keep track of when you bought your running shoes and how long they last.

photo of UConn basketball player Azzi Fudd holding a basketball while wearing a #35 jersey

With the right tools up your sleeve, you could ensure disposing them doesnt negatively impact the environment.

Many brands now have recycling or take-back programs that keep old shoes out of landfills.

Then theresNike, which allows you to drop off shoes at participating retail stores.

Tara Davis-Woodhall of Team United States celebrates with husband Hunter Woodhall after winning the gold medal in the Women’s Long Jump Final on day thirteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de France on August 08, 2024 in Paris, France.

Theyre then either recycled or cleaned and donated, depending on how worn-out they are.

Maybe even transition them from your running shoes to your errand-running-sneaks or gardening shoes.

Whatever you do, dont throw them away.

coach kara lawson from duke university

With a little extra care, every running routine can become a little more eco-friendly.

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

photo of juju watkins holding a basketball while wearing a usc jersey with the number 12