Mulders Family Pioneers Shoe Recycling for Sustainability in the Netherlands
Amsterdam, Friday, 4 July 2025.
The Mulders family invests in a pioneering shoe recycling project, addressing environmental concerns and promoting a circular economy, demonstrating the pivotal role of family businesses in sustainability.
A Pioneering Initiative by the Mulder Family
In a bold move to contribute to environmental sustainability, the Mulders family has embarked on an innovative shoe recycling project. Headquartered in Alkmaar, the Netherlands, De Mulders, led by Björn Mulder, has transitioned its business to focus on sustainable practices. By incorporating circular economy principles, this initiative aims to recycle shoes to reduce the environmental impact of discarded footwear [1].
Leveraging Local Ecosystems
This project spotlights the influential role of family businesses like De Mulders in the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem. During the COVID-19 crisis, Björn Mulder redirected the company’s resources towards sustainability, aligning with producers who prioritize eco-friendly practices. This strategic pivot not only showcases commitment to environmental protection but also encourages other businesses within the region to adopt similar sustainable practices [1].
Circular Economy in Focus
The shoe recycling initiative by the Mulders family is aligned with broader global efforts to promote circular economies, especially in the footwear industry. Global data reveals that over 23 billion pairs of shoes are discarded annually, emphasizing the urgent necessity for circularity in design and recovery systems. Efforts like these are crucial as they address the extensive waste generated by non-recyclable shoe materials [2].
Global and Local Impact
In addition to its local impact, the Mulders family project complements global sustainability initiatives. Notably, platforms like the Circular Rubber Platform also engage in recycling programs, proving that collaborative efforts can significantly contribute to reducing waste and emissions in the footwear sector [3]. This partnership underscores the importance of sharing knowledge and fostering collaborations to achieve significant environmental milestones.