APICCAPS Joins European Bioeconomy Alliance as Observer
APICCAPS joins as an observer, supporting the development of sustainable materials and stronger European supply chains.
LW Desk
Portugal’s footwear industry is strengthening its focus on sustainable manufacturing by joining the Bio-based Europe Alliance, a European initiative that aims to mobilize €10 billion in purchases of bio-based materials, products and applications by 2030.
The Portuguese Footwear, Components and Leather Goods Manufacturers’ Association (APICCAPS) has been accepted as an observer in the alliance, officially launched on October 21 in Dublin, Ireland, during the Global Bioeconomy Summit.
The initiative seeks to accelerate the adoption of materials derived from biological resources, reduce dependence on fossil-based resources and create new market opportunities for sustainable products.
As an observer, APICCAPS will be able to follow European policy developments and contribute to discussions on the alliance’s governance, procurement guidelines and operating framework.
Portugal Steps Up Investment in Sustainable Footwear
The move comes as Portugal’s footwear sector increases investment in modernization, automation and environmental performance. According to APICCAPS, the industry has mobilized more than €100 million over the past three years for sustainability, robotics and innovation.
Developing alternative materials, improving industrial waste utilization and promoting circular production methods are key priorities. Projects such as BioShoes4All have brought together companies, research centers and scientific institutions to develop more sustainable footwear solutions.
APICCAPS President Luís Onofre said participation in the alliance would strengthen the connection between investments made in Portugal and wider European industrial priorities.
The association believes sustainability has become an important factor in industrial competitiveness. However, turning research into commercially viable products will require competitive supply chains, sufficient industrial demand and conditions that enable manufacturers to adopt new materials.
Alliance Targets Growth in Bio-based Materials
The Bio-based Europe Alliance aims to connect raw material producers, technology suppliers and purchasing companies. Its voluntary approach is designed to encourage collective purchasing commitments without creating additional legal obligations for participants.
The European Commission’s €10 billion target for 2030 is intended to expand demand for bio-based products and help innovative materials reach a broader industrial market.
For footwear manufacturers, this could create opportunities to reduce reliance on fossil based inputs, explore alternative materials and develop products with improved environmental credentials.
Portugal’s footwear industry has a strong interest in this transition, with around 90% of its production exported internationally. Investment in innovative and sustainable materials could help manufacturers differentiate their products and strengthen their position in higher-value market segments.
APICCAPS sees the bioeconomy as an opportunity to support European reindustrialization, improve the use of local resources and build more sustainable value chains.
Through its participation, the Portuguese footwear industry aims to contribute to the development of new materials and production methods while helping translate European research and innovation into practical business opportunities.
