Are Crocs recyclable? How environmentally sustainable are they?
While they’re not the fashion fad like before, Crocs are still quite popular for multiple reasons. They’re casual, versatile and great for non-formal occasions. You don’t even need to wear socks! They’re the perfect comfort shoe for around the house. Consumers have responded and have bought over 700 million shoes worldwide. However, the big question is: are crocs recyclable? How environmentally sustainable are they?
Material of Crocs
Croc-fans might be disappointed to hear that the general answer is no, but there are alternatives available. You can’t just put it in your blue recycle bin on trash day. However, there are plenty of opportunities to re-use your Crocs. This includes nonprofits that accept donations and for great projects around the house. While not as easy as just tossing them in the recycle bin, the options are still quite easy to do and very convenient.
What makes crocs so unique? They’re made of a material that is known as Croslite. Contrary to popular knowledge, it’s not rubber. It’s a polymer resin and actually a type of foam. It’s made of ethylene vinayl acetate, or EVA. Croslite is easily washable and does’t absorb other materials.
People like it not only because of the easy upkeep (easily washable) but also because it’s durable, lightweight and actually has some anti-bacterial properties.
Unfortunately, it’s not biodegradable. That means its just going to pile up in the landfill if you toss it in the trash. There are a couple things you can do when you no longer want your crocs:
Donate
If the shoes are still in good shape, you can donate your crocs. Crocs are well-made and in most cases can be worn again. However, be sure that your shoes are still in fair to good condition. If you have a tear, you probably want to throw it in the trash instead. There are many options available. You can choose your local thrift store. These are often located in downtown locations.
The Salvation Army is a well-known national charity that accepts Crocs. You can drop your shoes off at a location. Sometimes they’ll even stop by and pick up donated items.
Goodwill is another option. Not only can you drop off at their stores but they have trailers located throughout the country as well.
Soles 4 souls is a great option. You’ll find a donation box at participating croc retailers. You don’t even need to clean your old crocs. They do the cleaning and will ship it internationally for people who are in need of footwear.
Lastly, a local church or community center might accept it. This might be a good option if you don’t want to travel far. Instead of driving into the city to go to a national charity, you can just drop the shoes off at a local spot. Often these locations are within walking distance.
Reuse/repurpose yourself
There are a wealth of choices to choose from. If nothing strikes your fancy here, you can check out for croc ideas on pinterest. Some of these require crafting skills, tools and materials. However, many of them just use everyday household items.
a) Some people have a problem with deer. You can scare them away with a croc. Take some twine or rope and hang it from a wooden stick around the garden.
b) Do you have a green thumb? Old crocs make great planters. The holes are natural drains. You can nail the shoes to a post or tree and fill it with dirt and plant seeds in it. Just be sure the position gets enough sunlight. Or, if you have a garden table you can just put put it and plant.
c) The shoe can be used as a container. Use it to keep your pens and pencils. Or hang it on the wall and keep small toys in it.
In summary, unfortunately Crocs aren’t recyclable in the traditional way. But they are quite durable and are in-demand good. You’ll find a plethora of charities willing to accept the shoes.
Are they environmentally sustainable? While they certainly aren’t biodegradable, if you use them for many years and then donate your shoes, it could be a plus for the planet.
