SK Chemicals-DongSung Chemical-Black Yak, Collaboration for Sustainable Footwear Commercialization

Trekking shoes commercialized by SK Chemicals, Dong Sung Chemical, and Black Yak. Photo by SK Chemicals

The domestic industry has joined forces to reduce carbon emissions in the outdoor sector.

SK Chemicals, Dongsung Chemical, and BYN Black Yak announced on the 18th that they have developed sustainable footwear materials using the natural-origin material ECOTRION and applied it to Black Yak's 'Trekking Shoes 343 MAX.'

The trekking shoes, released as a new product this spring, use eco-friendly materials that reduce greenhouse gases, offering high functionality for outdoor activities while satisfying the value consumption trend, attracting significant consumer interest.

The three companies introduced this product after a year of collaboration. SK Chemicals stably supplied 100% bio-based polyol 'ECOTRION,' Dongsung Chemical developed the bio-polyurethane resin 'NEOPAN?' for footwear using this raw material, and Black Yak utilized it to produce the 'Foot Pillow Cushioning Foam,' which minimizes ankle and knee joint load, applying it to the midsole heel support layer.

The midsole of trekking shoes is a core component that determines the weight and function of footwear, acting like a car suspension. The midsole must cushion impacts on the body and ensure safe steps on uneven terrain, making cushioning essential.

Dongsung Chemical's bio-polyurethane resin 'NEOPAN' for footwear uses bio-based raw materials while maintaining the high elasticity and flexibility of conventional polyurethane resins, enabling the shock absorption function of the 'Foot Pillow Cushioning Foam.'

ECOTRION, used in NEOPAN, is an eco-friendly material that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by about 40% compared to conventional petrochemical raw materials and is used in producing spandex, synthetic leather, and urethane elastic materials that are difficult to recycle. ECOTRION has a chemical structure with one less carbon atom than petrochemical materials, resulting in a helical polymer structure that allows the production of products with high elastic resilience like a spring.

Sustainability, which has become a material trend across all industries, is emerging as a key topic in the outdoor industry as well. According to the presentation at last year's world's largest sports goods fair, 'ISPO Munich 2023,' 38% of consumers said they would consider switching brands if climate-friendly factors were present. Manufacturers are actively seeking materials that enhance sustainability.

Accordingly, Black Yak plans to actively utilize eco-friendly materials to diversify its product portfolio and strengthen its corporate image and sales.

Ha Seong-chan, Head of Planning and Business at Black Yak, said, "The '343 MAX,' the first commercial product applying bio-materials, is attracting consumer interest as it offers both environmental significance and cushioning that effectively absorbs shocks, allowing consumers to experience both sustainability and high functionality." He added, "We will continue to develop our eco-friendly technologies and expand cooperation with various partners to lead sustainable fashion."

SK Chemicals and Dongsung Chemical plan to gradually expand the bio-material market in the sports and fashion sectors through active collaboration with major domestic and international brands.

No Jung-sik, Head of Polyurethane Business at Dongsung Chemical, stated, "Based on the environmental advantages and excellent physical properties of the bio-polyurethane resin 'NEOPAN' for footwear, we are seeking collaboration opportunities with various footwear brands." He added, "Through Dongsung Chemical's resin formulation and synthesis technology, we will maximize the unique features and functionalities of each footwear to provide solutions that meet customer needs."

Kim Eung-soo, Head of Green Materials Business at SK Chemicals, said, "Bio-materials, along with recycled plastics, are one of the promising alternatives to replace petrochemical materials." He added, "We plan to actively highlight the sustainability and functionality of PO3G, focusing on big brands leading the sustainable trend with bio-materials."