Where do you throw away old shoes?

How many times have we found ourselves looking at that old pair of shoes we no longer wear and wondering, "Where should I throw them away now?"

In an era where sustainability and environmental responsibility are at the forefront of discussions, it's crucial not to further contribute to the pollution problem. Here's a detailed guide for proper shoe disposal.

1. For broken shoes, choose unsorted waste collection.

First, assess the condition of your shoes. If they're in terrible condition, with completely destroyed soles or obvious signs of wear that make them unusable, your only option is to throw them in the trash.

Shoes are typically made from a combination of materials, such as plastic, canvas, or leather. Throw them in your general waste collection or visit a recycling center for more information on how to dispose of them.

2. Donate or sell shoes in good condition

If your shoes are still in good condition but simply no longer fit you, you can consider donating or giving them away. In large cities or near supermarkets, there are several bins dedicated to collecting used clothing and shoes, such as those run by Humana or Caritas.

Alternatively, you can sell your used shoes online, on platforms like eBay, Vinted, or Depop, giving them a second life and maybe even making a few euros at the same time!

3. Choose to recycle used shoes

Finally, there are several organizations that recycle used shoes. Regardless of the condition of the shoes—whether they're damaged or still usable—this option could be ideal for those seeking a sustainable commitment that goes beyond mere donation or sale.

Among the various organizations, we recommend Esosport , which recycles plastic from the soles of running shoes and sneakers to create playground flooring or athletic track bases. Choosing to properly dispose of an old pair of shoes may seem like a small gesture, but it has a significant impact on the environment!