Footwear brand Keen has received the Good Housekeeping 2021 Sustainability Innovation Award. The accolade is for the brand’s Detox the Planet initiative, which keeps perfluorochemicals (PFCs) and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) out of its footwear.
PFCs/PFAS, a class of approximately 5,000 fluorinated chemicals also known as “forever chemicals”, often feature in water repellent finishes in everyday products. These toxic chemicals enter the environment where the chemicals, components and finished products are manufactured, through contaminated water or waste. And they spread easily, posing health risks to humans and animals.
In 2014, Keen committed to eliminating PFCs from its supply chain.
It successfully went PFC free across its full footwear line in 2018. This year, Keen open sourced its process to go PFC Free via its Green Paper: The Road to PFC Free Footwear so that other brands can embrace the same journey faster and more efficiently. Product developers can click here for further details of the detox process.
Commenting on winning the Sustainability Innovation Award is Erik Burbank, VP of Keen Effect. “To be recognized for these efforts by Good Housekeeping underscores the importance of this issue. Our journey to eliminate these chemicals has been a top priority at Keen.
“PFCs/PFAS are so pervasive. They bioaccumulate and don’t break down, which is why they’re called forever chemicals. Keen’s goal is to not only remove these toxins from our line but also to help other brands do the same. We have a proven method to replace these chemicals with safe, affordable, effective alternatives. We want to share these learnings to protect people and the planet.”
The Good Housekeeping Awards acknowledge both innovation and excellence.
With a 12-year history, the awards program has a team of judges comprising scientists, analysts and experts from the Good Housekeeping Institute. Collectively they vet thousands of submissions across 11 consumer product categories from brands in many industries. Seven brands receive the prestigious award distinction.
Established in 2014, Keen’s Detox the Planet Initiative takes proactive action against harmful chemicals in its supply chain. It identifies, removes and replaces them with safe and effective eco-friendly alternatives.
The brand also continues to seek out innovative solutions. For instance, the harvesting and upcycling of waste, using the earth’s resources wisely and lessening its overall impact on the planet. For further information on The Keen Effect, please click here.
