OXMAN, a design lab focused on creating nature-centric products, has launched the O° Shoe, a pioneering footgear made entirely from biodegradable materials. This innovative footwear is produced without petrochemicals and aims to generate zero microplastics, reflecting a significant shift towards sustainable manufacturing practices in the fashion industry.
The O° Shoe is part of OXMAN’s newly developed O° platform, which integrates advancements in digital technology, materials science, biology, and robotics. This technology allows for the creation of biobased consumer products from a single organic material, streamlining the production process into a nearly zero-waste model with minimal human intervention.
Central to the O° platform are polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), a class of organic materials recognized for their versatility and complete biodegradability. PHAs can be produced by bacteria that utilize atmospheric carbon dioxide, methane, or food waste as their feedstock, potentially reducing overall carbon levels in the environment. Once disposed of, PHA products like the O° Shoe break down entirely in ambient conditions, avoiding the persistent pollution often associated with traditional plastics.
Neri Oxman, CEO and Founder of OXMAN, emphasized the importance of this innovation, stating, “We have successfully elevated the potential of PHA through the development of O°, a new technology for the design and fabrication of products that seeks to minimize harm in its conception and nourish the environment in its afterlife.”
The design process of the O° Shoe is notably efficient, incorporating precise constructions that cater to various functions—whether as a walking shoe, running shoe, or ballet slipper. Each shoe features a knitted upper crafted from PHA-based yarn, while the outer layers are 3D printed using custom PHA blends. This method eliminates traditional cut-and-sew practices, contributing to the platform’s near zero-waste production model.
In addition to its sustainable materials and efficient production, OXMAN’s O° platform also addresses the environmental impacts of industrial dyes. Traditional pigments often come from petrochemical sources, but OXMAN has opted to use bio-engineered pigments derived from natural resources, enabling a more sustainable coloring process.
The unveiling of the O° Shoe marks a step forward in OXMAN’s commitment to creating products that are environmentally friendly throughout their lifecycle—from conception to decomposition. With the promise of PHAs and innovative manufacturing techniques, OXMAN is positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable fashion initiatives.
