Nike Explore the Future of Sustainable Materials with Newlight’s AirCarbon
When it comes to sustainability innovations in the sneaker space, are some of the biggest movers and shakers in the game, tackling climate change with a multi-pronged offence. From the far-reaching initiative, to practical tweaks in packaging, they’re constantly making changes in the production line as they move towards zero carbon and zero waste. Now, their next step sees them join forces with biotech company Newlight to explore the use of carbon-negative AirCarbon.
The material, developed by Newlight over a period of 10 years, is produced by oceanic microorganisms that convert air and greenhouse gas into a material that can be melted into usable form. Importantly for Nike, AirCarbon can be used as a substitute for plastic and leather.
Nike’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Noel Kinder, says of the partnership: ‘AirCarbon offers an opportunity to further reduce our impact on the planet. Materials account for 70 per cent of Nike’s total carbon footprint, and we’re accelerating our efforts and exploring new opportunities in this space because, in the race against climate change, we can’t wait for solutions, we have to work together to create them.’
No word yet on how the folks at Beaverton will put AirCarbon to use, but we’ll keep you posted.