Bad Shoes

A leading source of environmental toxins is the material composing Chanel's $555 ballet flats- It's PVC, or vinyl, used throughout the shoe industry, where exposures during manufacturing threaten workers' health, though not customers'. Although Chanel proudly advertises its vinyl shoes, some manufacturers—including Nike—are eliminating PVCs and dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (see chart below). Nike is also focusing on reducing greenhouse emissions from manufacturing and shipping, says Sarah Severn, corporate global director of sustainable development. And its Reuse-A-Shoe program converts sneakers into soccer fields and basketball courts.