In an era of increased consciousness about what our apparel is made of, UGG’s new footwear collection is a welcome sight. Aptly titled Plant Power, the collection reinvents the silhouettes of two timeless UGG favorites, the Neumel chukka boot and the ‘fluff’ platforms. But the update goes beyond a change in appearance. All of the shoes in the collection are made of plant-based, renewable materials that are sustainably sourced. The collection is part of a long-term commitment by UGG to increase the overall sustainability of its brand.

The Neumel Natural chukka offers buyers the comfort of the classic shoe with new, natural materials. The upper fabric of the shoe is crafted from a blend of 55% cotton and 45% hemp. The UGGplush™ interior lining, meanwhile, is made of TENCEL™ lyocell fibers and UGGpure™ repurposed wool woven into a recyclable polyester backing. For the unacquainted, lyocell fibers are cellulosic fibers derived from wood pulp. The wood pulp, in turn, is sourced from certified sustainable forests. Clearly, no aspect of production has been overlooked by UGG. 

“Our sustainable wood-based fibers are an excellent choice for the environment, and a natural choice for products that require comfort and breathability,” said Robert van de Kerkhof, the CCO of global textile company Lenzing. “We are committed to supporting brands like UGG who have set sustainable commitments that support both people and the planet.”

Meanwhile, the Fluff Sugar Platform and Fluff Sugar Sandal provide a more casual kind of comfort. The shoes’ appealing foam outsoles are formed of materials derived from sugarcane, a renewable resource. Sugarcane is rainwater dependent and removes CO2 from the atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for manufacturing. Like the Neumel Natural, the Fluff Sugar platform and sandal bring the style alongside sustainability. The playful colors and cloud-like silhouette make it the perfect shoe for a sidewalk stroll. 

A California-based brand, UGG has long been a champion of the environment. In 2016, parent company Decker Brands joined the United Nations Global Compact. The UNGC ensures that its 9,500 participating companies meet targets relating to various aspects of their production cycle, from waste and chemicals to labor rights. Other sustainability endeavors from UGG can be found on their sustainability platform, FEEL GOOD, launched last year to communicate long-term plans for reducing negative environmental impact across the UGG brand.

Those looking to order from the Plant Power collection might be curious about the packaging. Excessive plastic and paper from shipping are major sources of waste. Fortunately, UGG’s Plant Power collection ships in just its own container rather than within an additional shipping box. On the inside, paper insert cards have been removed. Instead, material information is printed on FSC-certified tissue paper. 

UGG’s newest collection demonstrates attention to detail. Their commitment to sustainability extends from the time the materials are planted to when the shoes arrive at your door. Whether you’re new to the UGG brand or a longtime fan, the Plant Power collection offers a chance to be a part of a future as sustainable as it is fashionable.