Compostable 3D-printed footwear steps into reality
Israel-based material science company Balena has teamed up with designer Kitty Shukman to create a 3D-printed concept slide from a compostable and biodegradable elastomer it calls BioCir.
Products made of BioCir can undergo full biodegradation in an industrial compost facility.
David Roubach, founder and CEO of Balena, said: "Our combined creative vision has taken the dream of sustainable, scalable 3D-printing another step forward, and we hope to see leading fashion brands take a step in the same direction in the near future."
Ms Shukman said the design is based on roots growing around a foot. "I continually strive to strike a balance between functionality, sustainability and style, and working with the Balena team to envision this new design has helped me imagine a day when our fashion industry becomes truly circular," she said.
