We all have a pair. Call them sneakers, tennis shoes or athletic shoes. We wouldn’t wear them outside our own fenced yards. They’re caked with mud or glowing green with many a summer’s worth of yard clippings. At some point, though, they become so curled and stiff we can’t face them anymore. They get pushed back further and further into the cobwebbed corners of the garage, certain victims of the next big cleanout.
But did you know there can be an afterlife for sneakers? They can be recycled and born again. And here’s the best part. They can be turned into play area surfacing. That would make any pair leap for joy.
Nike’s “Reuse-A-Shoe” program collects worn-out athletic shoes of any brand. These shoes are processed and recycled into a material called “Nike Grind.” The grind is used to help construct basketball and tennis courts, athletic fields, running tracks and playgrounds. Nike Grind can compose up to 20 percent of these surfaces. To date, Nike has recycled more than 21 million pairs of shoes that have become part of 265 sport surfaces.
Nike has Reuse-A-Shoe drop-off locations across the country. They include Nike stores, other retail stores, athletic clubs, schools and colleges. The closest site to Concord is the Nike Factory Store at the Tanger outlet mall in Tilton. So next time you are headed out for a day of serious shopping, take along a contribution or two.
Area businesses interested in joining the program should visit nikereuseashoe.com for more information. Nike is in the process of expanding its recycling capabilities in order to add more drop-off spots. You can register to receive updates. Groups wishing to conduct shoe drives of 100 pairs or less are encouraged to complete an online application at the previously mentioned address.
If you’re not planning a trip to Tilton anytime soon but are ready to part with a pair, you may send them (at your own expense) to:
Nike Recycling Center
c/o Reuse-A-Shoe
26755 SW 95th Ave.
Wilsonville, OR 97070
Please send only athletic shoes (no cleats) that are dry and free of metal.
The Recyclinator
