Issues with Consumption and Fast Fashion
Compulsive buying is characterized by excessive, impulsive, and emotional purchases often triggered by negative feelings such as stress, anxiety, or frustration. People affected by this behavior often buy products they don’t actually need or even want. According to a study by Granero and colleagues, between 3.4% and 6.9% of the general European population are considered "compulsive buyers" — with a slightly higher rate among students (5.9% to 11.5%). The average age of compulsive buyers is 38.
The ADEME report "Fashion Inside Out" highlights the massive environmental impact of the textile industry:
The textile industry is the third-largest consumer of water worldwide, right after wheat and rice farming — using 4% of the world’s potable water.
Every year, the textile sector emits 4 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalents. If we don’t change our habits, it could account for up to 26% of global greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Shoe manufacturing also has a major, often underestimated, environmental footprint. The machinery and chemicals involved generate large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, especially when coal is used as an energy source. With 15 billion pairs of shoes produced each year, the impact is massive. Chemicals like adhesives and tanning agents used in the process also contaminate ecosystems, threatening both wildlife and plant life.
Is the Perfect Pair of Sandals Possible?
Nuoceans is committed to creating sandals that truly match their wearers (maybe you!), while also caring for workers throughout the supply chain and minimizing environmental impact. To meet everyone’s needs, two key models were created: the Nu02 for summer and the Nuo Fluff for colder months.
These sandals, called Nuos, are:
- Innovative
- Durable
- Eco-friendly
- Comfortable
- Ethical
- Vegan
Innovative
The southern seas of Thailand are overwhelmed with plastic waste — especially flip-flops. Since flip-flop waste is notoriously difficult to recycle, Nuoceans uses a straightforward mechanical shredding process to compress this waste into multicolored panels. These panels can handle all types of flip-flop material without the need for separation — making Nuoceans one of the first to upcycle this specific kind of plastic waste.
Durable
The sandals are built to last and produced by a trusted Spanish supplier with GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certification — ensuring environmental responsibility and ethical practices. Each pair meets EU quality standards and is designed to endure for several years. With Nuos, you're not just making a sustainable choice — you're investing in long-lasting style.
Eco-Friendly
Beyond recycling flip-flops and helping clean the oceans, Nuoceans integrates multiple recycled materials in its sandals. The footbed is made from recycled cork (mainly from old cork stoppers), the straps are vegan leather made from recycled PVC, and the outsoles are recycled EVA. Even the packaging is made from recycled cardboard. Each pair is fully recyclable. Plus, being made in Spain helps reduce transportation distances, keeping the product’s carbon footprint as low as possible.
Comfortable
The cork footbed includes a cushioned layer for extra support and breathability. The vegan straps are adjustable to fit any foot shape comfortably.
Ethical
The sandals are made in Europe — specifically in Spain — where working conditions are certified by the European Union. All suppliers in the chain share Nuoceans’ values and mission.
Vegan
The straps are made from recycled vegan leather — a cruelty-free material that also gives new life to abandoned plastics. Nuoceans is currently working on a new bio-based strap material that includes palm fibers.
Sandals & the Circular Economy
Nuoceans promotes a circular economy and is currently developing a take-back program for used sandals.
In Conclusion: Why Choose Nuoceans Sandals?
While many companies focus solely on growth and profit, often pushing products for their own benefit, Nuoceans takes a different path — putting environmental and social impact first. We know we’re not perfect yet, but we’re proud to lead by example. Our mission is to create long-lasting sandals that transcend trends and