Everyday flip-flops may be polluting your body with microplastics

Hyderabad: Once seen purely as casual beachwear, flip-flops have become a fashion crossover item, appearing in high-street collections and even on designer runways. Their appeal lies in their ease, low cost and seasonal versatility.

But beneath the casual image is a complex mix of environmental and health concerns that experts say consumers rarely consider.

The environmental footprint

– Mass production and waste: Global demand for flip-flops runs into the billions of pairs each year. The majority are made from petroleum-based foams such as EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or PVC.

These materials are inexpensive to manufacture but degrade extremely slowly in nature. Once discarded, most pairs end up in open dumps, informal landfills or waterways, where they can persist for decades.

– From beaches to ocean beds: Because they are lightweight and buoyant, old flip-flops often travel long distances in rivers and oceans before washing ashore.

According to coastal clean-up organisations, they are among the most frequently collected items on beaches worldwide. Sunlight, saltwater and wave action gradually break them into microplastics, tiny particles small enough to be ingested by fish, seabirds, and other marine species.

– Carbon cost: The environmental impact of flip-flops begins well before they reach consumers.

Fossil fuel extraction for raw materials, combined with the energy-intensive processes used to mould, dye and package them, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. While a single pair may seem insignificant, the scale of production makes the carbon cost substantial.

The health concerns

– Chemical exposure: Some flip-flops contain additives such as phthalates, heavy metals or synthetic dyes. These substances can cause skin irritation when in direct contact for long periods and certain compounds have been linked to longer-term health risks.

“Flip-flops are often made from foams that are cheap to produce but difficult to recycle. Once they reach landfills or waterways, they contribute to long-term pollution,” said Dr Shamita Rao, environmental toxicologist.

– Microplastics in the food chain: The breakdown of discarded flip-flops into microplastics is not just a marine problem. These particles can enter the human diet through seafood or even drinking water, potentially carrying harmful chemicals into the body.

– Ergonomic risks: Flat flip-flops with thin soles offer minimal arch support and cushioning. Over time, prolonged use can lead to heel pain, arch strain and even knee or back discomfort.

Dr Anil Deshpande, a Hyderabad-based podiatrist speaking to NewsMeter, said, “They don’t hold the foot securely, forcing the toes to grip with every step. That constant strain may seem minor, but it can cause tendon and joint problems if worn daily.

Footwear design consultant Dhruv Menon warned against treating flip-flops as everyday footwear “From a health standpoint, the biggest problem is that they are treated as all-day shoes. They were never meant for that kind of use, and the body eventually pays the price.”

Moving toward solutions

– Material innovation: Some brands are turning to biodegradable foams made from natural rubber, algae or plant-based polymers. These aim to break down more quickly and avoid toxic additives.

– Product take-back schemes: Several global footwear companies now run collection programs where old flip-flops are recycled or repurposed, keeping them out of landfills and oceans.

– Consumer choices: Experts recommend buying fewer, higher-quality pairs, checking for eco-certifications, and using flip-flops for short-term wear rather than as default daily shoes.

The rise of flip-flops in fashion is undeniable, but so are the environmental and health trade-offs. Awareness is key: understanding what they’re made from, how they affect the body, and where they end up after use can help consumers make choices that are both stylish and responsible.