The only ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) practices and sustainability certification for companies in the footwear production chain in the world, Origem Sustentável (Sustainable Origin) celebrates its 100th participating company, between those already certified (80) and the ones in the preparation process (20). With this, the certification reaches an expressive representation, since it covers companies that account for about 50% of the national footwear production, of more than 870 million pairs.

The Marketing and Strategy Manager of the Brazilian Footwear Industries Association (Abicalçados), Cristian Schlindwein, points out that the Brazilian footwear industries are maturing the ESG theme with strategies and implementation of practices. This statement is corroborated with data contained in the ESG chapter of the Footwear Industry 2024 Sector Report, produced by Abicalçados, which points out that 88% of companies in the sector carry out the environmentally appropriate disposal of industrial solid waste, which is reused, recycled or co-processed. In addition, the research brings other important data to illustrate the increase in sustainability practices in the activity: 68% of companies in the sector perform periodic verification of their suppliers for legal, environmental and social compliance; 74% of companies perform control of restricted substances; 67% of companies use 100% renewable energy, whether purchased via the Free Energy Market or through self-generation; 59% of companies have at least one line of sustainable products; among other data.

According to the manager, the advancement of ESG practices in the sector is driven by a movement of awareness of the Brazilian and global consumer, which has been demanding measures of sustainability not only environmental, but also social from brands. A recent McKinsey survey, for example, found that 38% of the world's consumers have already changed their favorite brand for another due to matters related to the topic. "Sustainability is a path of no return for the industry that wants to remain competitive in an unstable scenario and of great competition, often predatory", highlights Schlindwein.

Competitiveness
When it comes to unfair competition, especially that promoted by Asian players, the CEO of Abicalçados, Haroldo Ferreira, assesses that the seal of the Sustainable Origin certification is one more tool for competitiveness. “In an increasingly competitive market, especially with Asian manufacturers, the dissemination of actions in accordance with human rights and environmental preservation have become a tool for competitiveness. The three largest Asian players, China, Vietnam and Indonesia, for example, have not ratified important conventions related to working hours, wages or social policies. We need to publicize that we are the country with the most sustainable shoe industry on the planet. The global consumer needs to know that, " he adds.

Sustainable Origin
Created by Abicalçados in partnership with the Brazilian Association of Companies of Components for Leather, Footwear and Artifacts (Assintecal) to certify both footwear producing companies and their suppliers of materials and inputs, Sustainable Origin is based on the best international practices in the area, following guidelines in five dimensions: economic, environmental, social, cultural and sustainability management. The categories are Diamond (+80% of the indicators reached), Gold (+60%), Silver (+40%) and Bronze (+20%). Audits are carried out by independent bodies such as SENAI, SGS, ABNT, Intertek and Bureau Veritas. Go to the website for more information www.origemsustentavel.org.br.