Indosole Blog & News

World Ocean Day!    In celebration of our oceans we thought we would start off this blog with some awareness and facts about them so we can properly appreciate all that they do for us.  Around 70% of our planet's surface is covered by enormous bodies of water. With the deepest part of it being 11,034 meters (36,201 feet) below the water's surface. According to National Geographic, if Mount Everest was placed there, the tip of the mountain would still be at least 2,133 meters (7,000 feet) below sea level. The oceans offer habitats for millions of species with only a minor amount being known to mankind. To this day it is estimated that we only discovered 5% of the oceans worldwide. The biodiversity still unidentified might be up to millions. Considering the incredible importance of healthy oceans to every living organism on earth, World Oceans Day aims to protect at least 30% of our oceans, lands and waters by the year of 2030 (“30x30”). World Oceans Day specifically demands 30x30 because of recent studies suggesting that we will need to protect at least this amount of our planet, to secure earth‘s life supporting systems and to obtain biodiversity. Currently less than 17% of land and less than 8% of oceans is legally protected from destruction through exploitation or pollution. Oceans connect all living things, provide livelihoods for millions and are vital for life on earth. They produce at least 50% of the oxygen we are breathing and are able to store 50 times more carbon dioxide than the surrounding atmosphere. Additionally, the oceans are essential for climate regulation because they transport heat from the equator to the north and South Pole creating viable weather conditions. The world's oceans also supply humans with food, medicine, as well as jobs for more than 40 million people. Especially people from developing countries rely on the sea for their livelihoods. World Oceans Day therefore strives to keep the global movement growing to apply more pressure on the world's governments and economy to do their part in 30x30 and take it seriously. Already over 41.000 individuals and 1.100 organizations from 84 countries are committed to protect 30% of the plant.  With a seemingly never ending list of points that prove the great importance of oceans to life on earth, Indosole wants to stress the need of taking immediate actions now. Raising awareness for this topic is only one of many actions that can be taken. Participating in online events, signing petitions, educating yourself or people close to you, creating or consuming art meant to highlight the struggles we are facing can be likewise as impactful. As a certified B-Corp Indosole is committed to do our best to impact earth's sensitive balance between humans and nature positively, hence the celebration of World Oceans Day! Let's all take a minute today to truly appreciate all that our oceans do for us.   With love,  Your Indosole Team <3

Giving a fresh start to the "Lost Soles" of the sneaker industry of Indonesia.  Since 2009, Indosole has prevented 150k+ waste tires from going to the landfill and given them new life as soles for our footwear. We strive to not only be pioneers of recycling in the footwear sector but also reduce and repurpose landfill waste on a global scale. With transparency in our manufacturing process as a core driver, Indosole is continuously reworking its production process and concept to become the greenest and cleanest in the game. As a certified B Corp we are committed to the standards set forth in order to create a more ethical and open business environment.  As environmental keepers of the future and simply a dedicated team of motivated and young people, we decided it was time to evolve one step further. We are proud to introduce our newest technology "The Lost Sole Collection."  As an international hub for sneaker manufacturing, millions of pairs of shoes are being produced monthly in Indonesia. With this rapid growth, there are 100's of thousands of defects which are being thrown away.  Similar to tires, sneaker soles are made from strong and durable materials that are made so well that they will take a long time to break down. Material of this strength can take over 1,000 years to decompose!  In following our signature process of turning waste tires to footwear soles, we have developed our "Recycled Sneaker Technology." Each defective sneaker sole is pulverized into a powder and then reshaped and molded into a 60% recycled sole. The new advantage as we see it, is using more waste which otherwise sits in a landfill while also giving our footwear soles more life and COLOR.  We now offer 3 colors in Flip Flops, Slides, and Platforms which are extra comfortable and ready for any adventure that comes their way.  We are always looking to make our products better and this season we have. With the same quality, durability and attention to detail; the new and improved slides are more comfortable like never before featuring Dream Cloud Comfort. Indosole aims to make a shift from evergreen talks into a more refreshing product. Indosole believes that with a fun approach the company is able to contribute to shaping the consumer patterns of future generations.  We hope you enjoy our latest creation and try a pair for yourself.  The Indosole Team 

Happy Mothers Day! This year in celebration of mothers day Indosole would like to take a mom-ent to honor motherhood that is observed in different forms throughout the world. None of us would be where we are today without our moms. In an hour of today we decided to do some research on how this holiday came to be and the history behind it. Celebrations of mothers and motherhood can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who held festivals in honor of the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele, but the clearest modern precedent for Mother’s Day is the early Christian festival known as “Mothering Sunday.” Over time the Mothering Sunday tradition shifted into a more secular holiday, and children would present their mothers with flowers and other tokens of appreciation. This custom eventually faded in popularity before merging with the American Mother’s Day in the 1930s and 1940s. Fun fact: Did you know? More phone calls are made on Mother’s Day than any other day of the year. These holiday chats with Mom often cause phone traffic to spike by as much as 37 percent. The official American Mother’s Day holiday arose in the 1900s as a result of the efforts of Anna Jarvis, daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis. Following her mother’s 1905 death, Anna Jarvis conceived of Mother’s Day as a way of honoring the sacrifices mothers made for their children. By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday, and Jarvis had established the Mother’s Day International Association to help promote her cause. Her persistence paid off in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. Indosole wants to send out big love to all the mothers in the world! The contribution mothers bring to the world does not go unnoticed and we thank you for always raising change makers. Check out our last year's blog post to get to know the mothers at indosole!

It’s time for collective action NOW!    Today, Friday the 22nd of April 2022, is a special day for everyone fighting the climate crisis and a call to individuals, the economy and politicians worldwide to start making meaningful change. This year’s Earth Day is being held under the theme of "Invest in our planet“ and is centered all around standing together as a society to break down barriers created by the fuel industry and to strive for a new era, in which humans allow earth to heal from the inflicted damage of the past. Nature's recovery and preservation to allow for a prosperous future for humans and animals to thrive likewise is central.  Founded in 1970, Earth day is advocating for more consumer awareness and how the habits of consumption are harmful to the environment. Earth Day has managed to mobilize millions of people worldwide to participate in eco-friendly actions, like major beach cleanups. The high relevance of the global campaign is pushed even further by the participation of influential public personas, such as actor and activist Leonardo DiCaprio, who is showing his support publicly, pushing politicians to take immediate action. "We need to act (boldly), innovate (broadly) and implement (equitably)". (EARTHDAY.ORG, https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2022/) Because Earth Day is about taking collective action now, we want to propose a question to you: What is your contribution going to be? Even if every individual only makes a seemingly minor contribution, little things will add up and turn small actions into something that’s impactful on a big scale.  Here is a list of ten activities to participate in: Join a local cleanup event! No cleanup event nearby? No worries, just invite some friends and start your own private cleanup at a local beach, forest or even in a downtown public park! Plant a tree! Sign EARTHDAY.ORG‘'s petition to hold the fast fashion industry accountable, here: https://action.earthday.org/the-fashion-industry-must-change Educate a friend or family member! Sit down and take time to analyze your consumption habits. Ask yourself, how can I change my habits to make a positive impact on this planet? Ban at least one single-use item from your household. Plant bee-friendly flowers in your garden or balcony. Let your money do the talking: Support businesses who are demanding a sustainable approach to production. Be an online advocate and lead by example. Post about earth day and encourage others. As a certified B-Corp Indosole also feels committed to increase our positive environmental impact and continues to fight for climate justice!

WHO (World Health Organization) initiated the very first annual celebration of World Health Day on the 7th April 1954.   Since then World Health Day centered their campaigns on drawing attention to health related issues that concern people worldwide. Therefore, this year's focus lies on the urgent demand of the immediate shift of public attention from economical interest to health related issues connected to global warming. Likewise, WHO demands us to reimagine a world that is fair, where rich countries are not gatekeeping resources essential for living, like water, food and clean air. We need to create an economy that is focused on human well-being and give control to those affected over their health, as well as this planet's health now. According to WHO‘s estimations over 13 Million people are dying each year due to environmental causes that could have been prevented.  Since Indosole is all about  repurposing already existing resources, we wanted to take the chance to raise awareness on this  topic and highlight Indosoles mission. WHO made clear that with a shocking 90% of humans worldwide every single person on earth is breathing unhealthy air, which is the result of fossil fuels being burned in factories, vehicles, etc. Each year, over 1.5 Billion tires are being burned in developing countries because they are a cheap and efficient source of energy, releasing toxins into the air that have a serious negative impact on human health and on the environment. Studies found that depending on the length and intensity of exposure, risks like irritation of the skin, eyes mucous membranes or respiratory effects can occur. These fumes might also cause damage to the central nervous system, depression and cancer. Tires that are not being burned end up in landfills, where they will not decompose for thousands of years and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes contracting threatening diseases like Malaria. WHO already realized, with earth‘s temperatures rising continuously, the growing risk of mosquitoes spreading further and faster than ever before.   We need to face the issues created by mankind on this planet now and answer with radical changes in our habits of consumption. The forced shutdown of many economical branches has proven to us that our planet is able to recover and reset with rivers running clear again in Venice, meaning that it is not too late to take action. But right now at this moment we are not allowed to go back to our old ways of ignoring the health of humans and of our earth. Recovery is desperately needed. Our planet is our health.   

Sungai Watch x Indosole Ocean health has been a major topic in the conservation discussion and international spotlight for the last 20 years, and we are thankful for this attention to the ocean we love so much. Less attention has been attributed to the health of rivers and the waterways that connect the land to the ocean. Sungai Watch has been spearheading this movement since the start of the pandemic in Bali, and we couldn’t be more proud of our friends and excited about what they are doing. We said - “we are here to help”! Fun Fact; Make A Change World was started in 2009 - the same year as Indosole.  Sungai Watch was started by the three siblings behind Make A Change World - Kelly, Gary, and Sam Bencheghib - a dynamic trio of change makers both individually and collectively.  So how does Sungai Watch work and what do they do?  The simple answer is hours and hours of hard work whether it be cleanups or installing their now signature “Trash Barriers” in over 100 rivers and waterways in Bali. In Sungai Watch’s own words: “​​Sungai Watch is a community river cleanup organization that has the mission to protect our waterways, starting in Indonesia. At Sungai Watch we believe that simple Trash Barriers can serve as a way to stop the leakage of plastic pollution into our ocean. Rivers are the perfect connection point between life on land and the ocean.” “Jaga Sungai Kita!” (Take Care of Our Rivers) Over 300,000 kg of trash collected to date Sungai Watch recovers 1000 kg (1 ton) of trash everyday from waterways in Bali that otherwise would reach and leak into the ocean. Installed Trash Barriers in over 100 rivers and waterways in Bali Next goal is to move into Java with the goal of 1000 trash Barriers installed So what happens to the waste that is collected? This is where it gets really interesting. Sungai Watch has a sorting center where all waste collected gets separated into organic and non-organic. The organic waste gets processed into compost, charcoal chips, and mulch. The non-organic waste gets separated into glass, metal, plastics, foams and...wait for it...flip flops! Yes Flip Flops comprise 5-8% of the waste Sungai Watch collects. The team has invested into cleaning and grinding machines which can process and break down this non-organic waste into secondary resources that can then be made into new products.  You can learn more about the waste management at Sungai Watch and download the “The River Plastic Report 001”  PRESS HERE You may ask - what happens to the waste flip flops that get processed at Sungai Watch? We may just have something up our sleeve, stay tuned for more info. Additionally if you are in Indonesia and have any old flip flops of any brand feel free to drop them off or send them to us at our store location in Canggu, Bali, where we collect them to be processed at Sungai Watch. For the next week 10% of any purchase at Indosole.com goes to help Sungai Watch in their massive cleanup effort at the Bali Mangroves and on the 100 plus rivers and waterways that are surging with trash during this strong rainy season in Bali. Follow our journeys...  @sungaiwatch @indosole

Indosole x Industry of All Nations "We strive to represent the future of our planet as well as we can - and if beings from other worlds were to come and visit, they would look forward to taking back IOAN products as gifts from planet Earth." Industry of All Nations is a brand that is committed to a responsible process and high quality products that are properly made by real people. They source where things are made, they help the local economy, they limit transportation to only end products that are transported, they find what specific countries and communities do well naturally, and they invest to keep responsible and fair manufacturing alive.  We are super proud and happy to announce that we are producing our second collection with IOAN featuring our signature recycled tire soles, recycled eva and natural rubber footbeds, with organic cotton canvas straps in 2 variations - Raw, and Natural Indigo. Made proudly in Indonesia.  IOAN works with a lot of different nations worldwide, they have an established network of artisans that span from South and Central America to Europe and downward to Africa. Each piece represents a specific moment in time, places, feelings, and people. We are humbled to include Indonesia as one of the many nations in which IOAN has chosen to partner with. We are proud to introduce...THE IOAN x INDOSOLE SANDALS featuring: -Natural Rubber / Recycled EVA mixed upper footbeds-Organic Canvas straps that have been naturally dyed in Bali-100% upcycled tire soles -Packaged with 100% recycled cardboard tags

FATHERS DAY Indosole would like to take a moment to wish all the incredible fathers out there across the world a happy fathers day. Not all heroes wear capes and fathers, grandfathers, father figures are those heroes. In light of fathers days we took the time to ask our indosole fathers some personal questions about fatherhood and what that means to them. Name: Rizal "Ijal" Alvrianza Region: Denpasar, Indonesia Role: Graphic Artist/Illustrator Kids names and their ages : Mischa Azalea Alfriansyah (8), Maola Agasthya Alfriansyah (6), Moana Almaeera Alfriansyah (4) What has been your proudest moment as a Dad so far? There are so many.. from the time they are being born, to the first time I get a look at their face, to when they smile at me. But the proudest moment so far is when I'm get back home from work, and then they run to me and shout at me "Ayah!" (Dad). Sometimes I'll bring them bunch of snacks and their face more happy then before. I'll let them to kiss me first one by one before give them snacks. What is the hardest part of balancing your professional life while being a Dad? For me, it was finding the balance of doing the right amount of guidance for my children. Do too little, they think you don’t care. Do too much and you spoil them and they never learn adversity. Every child is different and I made my fair share of mistakes. But I also taught them to love and forgive. This comes in handy when they’re adults and you need love and forgiveness from them. How has sustainability or responsible/conscious living played into your Parenting style? I always buy clothes for my kid that almost 80% came from thrift shops. I'll try to save money and make life more sustainable is to not buy all my kids clothes new. The other thing is I teach them about environmental to clean up after meals and throw garbage in its place, because sometimes kid doesn't care about the trash. When we go to picnic, before leaving I pointed out a list of everything I need (including a trash bag). As to the picnic spot, I can spend some time looking at the pulse and identify the nearest trash can and reminds them to throw the garbage on it. What do you wish your child to aspire to as he/she grows up? I'll let my kid do whatever they wants and I still have to be very communicative with my kid so it doesn't get the feeling that me uninterested. I'll tell them about my intentions why I choose to give them a lot of freedom of action. As long as good for them, I will always fully support. Don’t miss out on being there for them when they needs you if you choose this parenting type. In my opinion the best parenting type is a balanced one. Not too strict but also not too relaxed. Name: Byron Seegers Region: Pacific Northwest and Western Canada Role: Sales Rep Kids names and their ages: Mikaela 25, Anya, 20, James 8 What has been your proudest moment as a Dad so far? I'd say the thing that has made me happiest as a Dad has been to see my daughters Anya and Mikaela really embrace and love their adopted brother James. I think it's tough for kids to accept big change and I'm proud of my girls for how they have welcomed James with open arms and hearts. What is the hardest part of balancing your professional life while being a Dad? The toughest thing has always been traveling a lot for work. These days there is a bit of a bonus though as my work now takes me to Los Angeles fairly often and I get to see my daughters when I'm there. Plus James loves adventures and sometimes I get to bring him along for the ride! How has sustainability or responsible/conscious living played into your Parenting style? Really just trying to lead by example and encourage my kids to embrace mindful practices and consumer habits. Sharing the outdoors and nature with my kids has been a big emphasis and I hope to nurture their own love of nature and sense of environmental responsibility.  What do you wish your child to aspire to as he/she grows up? More than anything I hope that my kids are happy and grow up with a clear sense of who they are and what is important to them. Name: Wim Verkade  Region: Europe Role: Sales manager Europe Kids names and their ages: Fardau 5 yr, Melle 3 yr, Julie 0 yr   What has been your proudest moment as a Dad so far? I’m so thankful that we are having three kids and that they are happy and healthy! Proud is not the good word, it’s more than that! Thankful that when I’m coming home and they are yelling PAPAAA!!! And when our youngest daughter Julie see my face she starts smiling directly!  What is the hardest part of balancing your professional life while being a Dad? You want to be a good colleague and a strong chain in the company but also in my role as father and husband. It works much better if you share all pendings issues also at home so they know where I am with my mind or phone sometimes. And when I have to travel I always keep the focus on when I’m coming back and not that I’m leaving! How has sustainability or responsible/conscious living played into your Parenting style? We make our kids aware that plastic is not good for our nature so they are picking constantly plastic waste on the streets. And wasting food is a sin in our eyes, so if they have enough and there are still some left overs we bring it to the garden for the birds or Noony, our 6 years old rabbit!    What do you wish your child to aspire to as he/she grows up? Take care of anyone as you care yourself! This should be the main goal in life and taking care of the planet is equal on this! Name: NIck Riley Region: Aus/NZ Role: Director/Dad Kids name and their age: Ra Mini Riley currently 3.5 years young.  What has been your proudest moment as a Dad so far? Bringing up our beautiful daughter in a way that she is comfortable within her own skin. She has a soft nature and hell of a lot of love to give. That always makes me smile and tells me i'm doing something right.  What is the hardest part of balancing your professional life while being a Dad? Just the constant juggling act of work and play. My kid is everything and usually gets the nod ahead of work. She makes all aspects of life fun so it's an easy decision.  How has sustainability or responsible/conscious living played into your Parenting style? Its definitely opened my mind up to providing the best future possible for our kids. I think it's an easy thing to say and understand without them, but once you have your own child, it quickly becomes an absolute necessity.  What do you wish your child to aspire to as he/she grows up? I have no agenda or aspirations for her. I just want her to be the happiest person she can be. Comfortable within her own skin and have the feeling of love and support no matter what her decisions are. The worlds her oyster and I can't wait to see what that involves.  Name: Komang Armawan Region: Bali Role: Warehouse Manager Kids names and their ages: 1. Surya Nata - 13 y 2. Bulan Dharma Putri - 11 y 3. Bintang Narottama - 7 y 4. Bumi Maha Dharma - 5 y 5. Cahaya Gayatri - 6 mth What has been your proudest moment as a Dad so far? When I have made my children safe and protected, and also seen a smile on their face. What is the hardest part of balancing your professional life while being a Dad? It’s stressful being responsible for shopping at the early traditional market to buy some food for breakfast and lunch, driving up kids to the school and picking them back home after work. leaving work with lots of unfinished business in mind, people trying to talk when they can see me heading out. on a busy hour finding a kid getting sick and the mom has to care for other kids. How has sustainability or responsible/conscious living played into your Parenting style? Planning your day before it happens, and making sure that you are prepared, can really cut down on your stress levels. Children have non-negotiable priorities.  What do you wish your child to aspire to as he/she grows up? Being healthy and happy, having the skill and confidence to explore and venture out into the world to play and learn to achieve success in their life. We want to say a big thank you to all the fathers around the world who are raising change makers and to the fathers of indosole who are always driving indosole to be it’s best. Being a parent is one of the most important roles anyone can have and we really appreciate all  fathers and mothers doing this job.  Driving change with each generation