Far Eastern New Century Leads the Way in Sustainable Footwear Innovation
In a significant advancement in the realm of sustainable fashion, Far Eastern New Century Corporation (FENC) has emerged as a pioneer by launching the world's first commercially available midsoles constructed from post-consumer PET bottle waste. Founded in 1949 in Taiwan, FENC has established itself as a global leader in eco-friendly polyester materials, consistently innovating to develop durable and sustainable products.
In 2025, FENC achieved a landmark breakthrough by transforming rigid post-consumer PET bottles into recycled thermoplastic polyester elastomer (rTPEE). This innovative material boasts exceptional environmental benefits along with superior performance characteristics, including elasticity, cushioning, and rebound, which make it ideal for use in shoe insoles. The material has already been successfully utilized in Salomon's amphibious footwear line, Solamphibian, further establishing its market credibility.
Compared to conventional petroleum-based TPEE, rTPEE results in a significant reduction of carbon emissions, estimated between 10% and 30%, thus contributing to the footwear industry's shift towards sustainable and high-value development. The announcement has sparked considerable interest among numerous international sports brands that are now engaged in discussions to adopt this groundbreaking material, showcasing its immense commercial potential.
Moreover, leveraging its polyester expertise, FENC has developed a variety of polyester materials tailored for different shoe components, addressing the challenge of recycling shoe parts post-consumption. This includes innovations such as recycled polyester (rPET) for shoe uppers, laces, liners, and adhesives, along with rTPEE insoles, advancing the concept of a 'mono-material, fully recyclable' design.
FENC has also introduced the FENC® TopGreen® AirTek PU technology, which incorporates industrially captured CO₂ as a raw material for producing high-performance elastic materials. These materials are extensively applicable in shoes, stretchable fabrics, waterproof and breathable membranes, and synthetic leather. This sustainable solution eliminates the need for the toxic phosgene and isocyanates typically used in conventional polyurethane production, offering a safer and greener manufacturing process.
AirTek PU allows for up to a 58% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), maintaining performance and functionality. This breakthrough technology harmonizes environmental friendliness, non-toxicity, and high performance. FENC has garnered recognition for its innovation, receiving the second 'Best CO2 Utilization 2025' award in Cologne, Germany, becoming the first Asian company honored with this accolade since the award's inception.
FENC remains committed to advancing sustainable materials and low-carbon innovation technologies, promoting a circular economy, and steering the world towards a zero-emissions future. Through continued investments in research and development, FENC is well-positioned to lead the charge in transforming the footwear industry with sustainable practices.
As a vertically integrated supplier of rPET, FENC is dedicated to providing top-quality green product solutions, serving renowned global brands while maintaining its commitment to sustainability. With a forward-thinking approach and a focus on innovative materials, Far Eastern New Century Corporation is set to redefine the standards of eco-friendly footwear in the years to come.
In 2025, FENC achieved a landmark breakthrough by transforming rigid post-consumer PET bottles into recycled thermoplastic polyester elastomer (rTPEE). This innovative material boasts exceptional environmental benefits along with superior performance characteristics, including elasticity, cushioning, and rebound, which make it ideal for use in shoe insoles. The material has already been successfully utilized in Salomon's amphibious footwear line, Solamphibian, further establishing its market credibility.
Compared to conventional petroleum-based TPEE, rTPEE results in a significant reduction of carbon emissions, estimated between 10% and 30%, thus contributing to the footwear industry's shift towards sustainable and high-value development. The announcement has sparked considerable interest among numerous international sports brands that are now engaged in discussions to adopt this groundbreaking material, showcasing its immense commercial potential.
Moreover, leveraging its polyester expertise, FENC has developed a variety of polyester materials tailored for different shoe components, addressing the challenge of recycling shoe parts post-consumption. This includes innovations such as recycled polyester (rPET) for shoe uppers, laces, liners, and adhesives, along with rTPEE insoles, advancing the concept of a 'mono-material, fully recyclable' design.
FENC has also introduced the FENC® TopGreen® AirTek PU technology, which incorporates industrially captured CO₂ as a raw material for producing high-performance elastic materials. These materials are extensively applicable in shoes, stretchable fabrics, waterproof and breathable membranes, and synthetic leather. This sustainable solution eliminates the need for the toxic phosgene and isocyanates typically used in conventional polyurethane production, offering a safer and greener manufacturing process.
AirTek PU allows for up to a 58% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), maintaining performance and functionality. This breakthrough technology harmonizes environmental friendliness, non-toxicity, and high performance. FENC has garnered recognition for its innovation, receiving the second 'Best CO2 Utilization 2025' award in Cologne, Germany, becoming the first Asian company honored with this accolade since the award's inception.
FENC remains committed to advancing sustainable materials and low-carbon innovation technologies, promoting a circular economy, and steering the world towards a zero-emissions future. Through continued investments in research and development, FENC is well-positioned to lead the charge in transforming the footwear industry with sustainable practices.
As a vertically integrated supplier of rPET, FENC is dedicated to providing top-quality green product solutions, serving renowned global brands while maintaining its commitment to sustainability. With a forward-thinking approach and a focus on innovative materials, Far Eastern New Century Corporation is set to redefine the standards of eco-friendly footwear in the years to come.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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