At Milan Design Week 2025, FOOTLOOP captured attention as more than an installation, it was a vision of what the future of footwear could look like.  Developed through a three-way collaboration between Moon Rabbit Lab - specialists in computational design and digital fabrication, framas - a global leader in footwear tooling and component manufacturing, and Balena - a material science company pioneering circular, compostable materials, the project set out to challenge the norms of shoe design, [...]

At Balena, we believe materials shape the future of design. And sometimes, the most powerful proof of what a material can do comes from the creativity of those who use it. That’s exactly what we found in this collaboration with multidisciplinary designer Neyla Coronel, who explored the flexibility, adaptability, and comfort of Balena.Filaflex, our bio-based, compostable 3D printing filament co-developed with Recreus—through one of the most personal and technically complex garments: [...]

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Balena and New.ve have unveiled a game-changing innovation in footwear: a fully compostable sneaker made entirely from 100% circular materials. This revolutionary sneaker redefines what it means to create shoes, offering no waste—just pure innovation.  It’s a thoughtful blend of traditional techniques, smart material choices, and sustainable design, proving that innovation doesn’t have to rely on high-tech solutions. By focusing on accessible methods and creative design solutions, [...]

When sustainability meets style, innovation takes center stage. Balena and Portuguese brand Lemon Jelly have joined forces to launch the NYSSA Bag, a limited-edition handbag crafted from Balena’s groundbreaking BioCir®flex material. With this collaboration, circularity steps out of theory and into the fashion world as a tangible, beautifully designed product. A Handbag Like No Other The NYSSA Bag is more than an accessory—it’s a movement. Crafted for durability and designed with [...]

Visionary artist and designer Zulu Kuki has joined forces with Balena to redefine the world of footwear. A collaboration not only merging art with technology but about setting new standards in both design and environmental responsibility. At the heart of this innovative project is a revolutionary 3D-printed shoe that combines cutting-edge technology with exceptional design aesthetics. Redefining Footwear Design Zulu Kuki, known for his boundary-pushing creativity and deep appreciation for cultural [...]

Making sustainable choices in business can be challenging, especially with terms like "biodegradable" and "compostable" often used interchangeably or misleadingly. For companies striving to operate mindfully and more sustainably, understanding the true meanings of these terms is crucial. This is especially true for the consumer goods industry, which is increasingly adopting sustainable materials to mitigate its environmental impact. In this blog, we will demystify the concepts of biodegradable and compostable materials, [...]