The Green Line - Recycling Tennis Shoes by Sharon Mielke
Unlike a fine pair of dress shoes, which hold out the promise of being well-cared for and re-soled, the athletic shoe is inherently disposable. Can it really be curtains for these stalwart old friends? Must they go off and haunt the landfill?
Athletic shoes present real obstacles to recycling because, like tennis balls, they are usually made of composite materials and this really complicates any contemplation of a new life.
Fortunately, Nike has really stepped up to the plate on this one. For years now they have been running the innovative Reuse-A-Shoe program. Old athletic shoes of any brand can be dropped off at collection points or sent directly to Nike in Oregon. The donated shoes are ground up to make soft surfaces for tracks, playgrounds, tennis courts, etc. In Dallas Luke's Locker at 3607 Oak Lawn (214-528-1290) can accept small quantities, 10 pairs or less.
Or send directly to Nike:
Nike Recycling Center
c/o Reuse-A-Shoe
26755 SW 95th Ave
Wilsonville, OR 97070
And tennis balls? You might donate used tennis balls to local animal shelters; the dogs need something to do while they are penned up.