About Beek
Beek: Elevating Style, Comfort, and Sustainability
Beek, a distinguished footwear brand founded in 2014 by Birgit and Kenna, seamlessly combines style, comfort, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability in each step. Renowned for their handcrafted sandals and shoes, Beek is a beacon of conscious fashion, redefining the industry's standards.
Sustainable Leather Sourcing and Construction
At the heart of Beek's sustainability ethos is their commitment to responsible leather sourcing. All of Beek's leather is exclusively derived as a byproduct of cattle and sheep raised for meat, promoting environmental responsibility. This leather is not only degradable and recyclable but also serves as a sustainable alternative, preventing waste.
A notable aspect of Beek's collection is the all-leather construction, constituting 50% of their offerings. This collection utilizes vegetable-tanned leathers, deemed the most sustainable method. These leathers originate from tanneries gold-certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG), a distinction held by only 14 tanneries in Mexico. The use of this high-quality, certified leather ensures that each pair of Beek footwear is not only fashionable but also a testament to the brand's dedication to sustainability.
Wrapped Leather Construction with a Green Touch
Approximately 50% of Beek's collection features a wrapped leather construction, showcasing a meticulous blend of sustainability and style. The outsole of these shoes is a shining example, being 100% recyclable and incorporating 40% recycled materials. While memory foam, a component of these shoes, poses a recycling challenge, Beek remains transparent about this limitation, underscoring their commitment to continuous improvement.
Genuine Leather vs. Synthetic Alternatives
Beek takes a firm stance in favor of genuine leather over synthetic alternatives like polyurethane (PU). Genuine leather, being a byproduct of the meat industry, aligns with Beek's commitment to sustainability. This choice reflects a conscious decision to steer clear of PU, a material derived from fossil fuels, contributing to a more eco-friendly fashion landscape.
Thoughtful Packaging Choices
In their packaging, Beek maintains a balance between sustainability and practicality. While carton and box materials are crafted from recycled sources, Beek acknowledges the necessity of a wax coating on lining and tissue to prevent dusting onto the shoes. The brand actively seeks alternative options, highlighting their ongoing pursuit of environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
Eco-Friendly Transportation Practices
Beek goes the extra mile in reducing its carbon footprint by eschewing cargo ships and minimizing air freight. The majority of their transportation involves trucking in from nearby Mexico, a decision that significantly decreases emissions compared to overseas shipping. This conscious approach aligns with Beek's broader commitment to sustainable practices at every stage of their supply chain.
Prioritizing Artisan Welfare
Beyond materials and processes, Beek places a premium on the welfare of the artisans who bring their designs to life. The working conditions in their factories are on track to achieve Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) certification, demonstrating a commitment to ethical and responsible manufacturing. Beek aims to achieve 100% compliance with WRAP standards by 2024, underscoring their dedication to holistic sustainability.
In essence, Beek emerges not merely as a footwear brand but as a trailblazer in sustainable fashion, seamlessly weaving together style, comfort, and an unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility. With each pair of Beek shoes, customers not only step into luxurious comfort but also contribute to a more sustainable and mindful fashion future.