GreenPlax Tess: Upcycled Footwear Made from Plastic Bottles

A Sustainable Solution for Fashion

Ccilu's GreenPlax Tess stands out from other sustainable footwear designs by utilizing plastic bottles in every major component of the shoe. The outsole, in particular, is made from straight scraps of bottles, carefully imitating their curves and shapes. Each pair of GreenPlax Tess shoes upcycles 20 plastic bottles, making a significant impact on reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

But the benefits of GreenPlax Tess go beyond sustainability. These shoes are water-repellent, dirt and oil-proof, anti-UV, and air-breathable, ensuring both comfort and durability. The innovative design also incorporates moisture-wicking and fast-drying properties, along with odor and mildew control. The resilient outsole provides excellent grip and support, making GreenPlax Tess suitable for all-day wear in various occasions.

The realization of GreenPlax Tess involves a unique and patented technology developed by Ccilu. The plastic bottles are upcycled into RPET yarns used in the upper, with recycled arrows serving as decorative elements. The scraps of the bottles, including the caps and labels, are fused and foamed with polyurethane to form the distinctive outsole. By upcycling bottles from specific beverage brands, the shape and curve of the outsole are inspired, creating a strong association and engagement with the brand.

GreenPlax Tess is not only a testament to Ccilu's commitment to sustainability but also a reminder of the bottle upcycling process. The color palette and silhouette design pay homage to various beverage brands, creating a direct visual impact and raising awareness about the environmental issues caused by plastic bottle waste. With its water-repellent and dirt-proof features, GreenPlax Tess is designed to withstand the demands of everyday life while promoting a sustainable future.

The GreenPlax Tess project began in July 2019 in Taiwan and was completed in August 2020. The shoes are planned to be available in the market in Q3 2021. Throughout the design process, Ccilu conducted extensive research on plastic bottle waste and the circular economy. Their goal is to reduce the number of wasted bottles and increase awareness and understanding of sustainable practices.

The innovative design and technology behind GreenPlax Tess presented several challenges for Ccilu. In the past, the industry primarily focused on using recycled bottles for the upper and sock-liner. However, Ccilu pushed the boundaries by incorporating the bottles into the outsole, significantly increasing their usage in footwear. This not only maximizes the impact of upcycling but also captures the interest of consumers, who play a crucial role in driving social movements and embracing the circular economy.

GreenPlax Tess has received recognition for its outstanding design and sustainability efforts. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Footwear, Shoes, and Boots Design category in 2021. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life. GreenPlax Tess is a testament to Ccilu's mission to develop the first carbon-neutral footwear by the end of 2021.

With GreenPlax Tess, Ccilu is revolutionizing the fashion industry by transforming plastic bottle waste into stylish and sustainable footwear. By combining innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to the environment, Ccilu is paving the way for a more sustainable future.