HDSL launches circular economy project

The “Circular economy in the shoe industry” project has been running since October 1st. Creating cycles. Securing the future.” With funds from the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU), the Federal Association of the Shoe and Leather Goods Industry (HDSL) is looking for ways to make shoe production more circular and the products more durable over a period of 18 months. The scientific partner for this is the Augsburg University of Technology. “The economic added value is considerable in the long term, as investments in circular concepts will lead to new business models,” says HDSL Managing Director Manfred Junkert.

The HDSL has appointed sustainability expert and trained equestrian saddler Lea Gummersbach as project coordinator. She is looking forward to her new project role: “As project coordinator, I will deal with the circular economy in the shoe industry and work with stakeholders on solutions for a more environmentally friendly future. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead, the exchange with committed people and working with association members.”