At Red Wing Shoe Company, sustainability isn’t a side project—it’s built into how we do business. We implement and scale sustainable solutions to reduce our environmental impact through science-based climate goals, circular solutions, and operational improvements that drive energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation.
“What we do today creates ripples that shape tomorrow. Red Wing Shoe Company’s sustainability strategy is guided by science-based actions that reduce carbon emissions, improve resource efficiency, and ensure a sustainable future for both our planet and our products.”
— Kim Lyons, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility
Our Footprint
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In 2022, we measured Red Wing Shoe Company’s carbon, water, and waste footprints with Quantis to establish a data-driven foundation for our Climate Roadmap.
Emissions
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We developed a science-based Climate Roadmap to cut Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 2030 that included sourcing renewable electricity, reducing natural gas use, and using lower-impact materials like reconstituted leather and recycled fibers. Progress highlights include offsetting over 66,000 metric tons of CO₂ through energy audits, HVAC and lighting upgrades, and solar subscriptions.
Waste
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A cross-functional task force was launched in 2024 to map tannery and manufacturing waste streams and identify circular solutions. Surplus leather was repurposed into limited-edition bags—with profits benefiting the Savory Institute—and scrap leather was sold for personal projects, raising $10K for the Environmental Learning Center.
Land & Resources
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In 2023 and 2024, we activated a native prairie restoration at our Red Wing, Minnesota plant to enhance biodiversity and carbon sequestration. We also partnered with the USDA’s Growing GRASS initiative to support regenerative leather sourcing practices.
For questions or feedback about our impact work, reach out to us at: CSR@redwingshoes.com