Flip Flop Sculptures to Clean the Ocean

Jan 25, 2018
2 min read

Project: Ocean Sole

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Flip flops are the worlds most prevalent shoes. Not only are beaches packed with bare-toed tourists, but around the world many people depend on this low cost option for foot protection. These shoes are easy and cheap to make, but not so easy to dispose of once they inevitably break or have been worn down beyond use. More often than not flip flops end up in the trash, eventually making their way to the ocean. The pollution caused by flip flops alone is estimated to equal $334 million!

Ocean Sole is taking an innovative approach to cleaning up these difficult to recycle shoes by repurposing them into beautiful works of art! Officially making it's start in 2005, Ocean Sole began reducing waste by creating toy-like figures. With international attention, they have been able to provide employment to over 50 community members, grow their selection of available art, and host Kenya's largest beach clean-up effort.

Despite Ocean Soles existing positive impact, they strive to reach farther. They hope to repurpose a remarkable 50 tonnes of flip flops each year, and have made a commitment to donate 10% of profits to additional marine conservation projects. Ocean Sole is also helping to raise awareness of recycling availability through public education and international partnerships.

So next time you're on the beach and your flip flop breaks, think about Ocean Sole. Look up local recycling facilities that accept flip flops or find a unique way to repurpose them in your home. If you would like to directly support Ocean Soles efforts, purchase a beautiful and unique conversation piece through their website linked below.

How To Take Action!

Share this post on Social Media!
Learn more about the Ocean Sole!
Become a Sole Mate!
Purchase art pieces!
Repurpose your flip flops with ideas from the ReFab Diaries.
Recycle your flip flops by calling your local recycling facility or purchasing a TerraCycle Box.
Purchase beach shoes made from environmentally responsible resources through companies such as Feelgoodz, PlusFoam, or Okabashi.
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