First order of business, don’t buy new shoes if you don’t need to. I understand this is a cold, hard adjustment to make. I, at one time, was the proud owner of about seventeen pairs of black, chunky heeled shoes (hey, it was the late 90’s) that were only slightly different from each other. One of the best ways to be green is to only buy what you need. So do your best to stretch the life of the shoes you have a little longer.

But if your soles are shot, your heel is broken, or no amount of shoe polish and buffing will make your shoes look respectable again, go for a new eco-friendly pair.

Simple makes adorable casual shoes from earth-friendly materials like jute, organic cotton, bamboo, recycled tires, and water-based glues.

U Roads shoes for men have soles made from recycled tires.

Chaco Sandals are made with new materials, but have extensive repair and re-sole services. One of my friends bought a pair of Chaco sandals seven years ago and they are still going strong and looking good. When you trade in your old footwear, you get 20% off of a new pair of Chaco sandals, and Chaco will clean your old shoes to donate to charitable organizations.

Another Eco-Friendly Tip from Allie.