This thesis, Biological Footprint, explores the potential of Gotlandic seaweed as a sustainable biomaterial for footwear. The project addresses environmental challenges posed by the overfertilization of the Baltic Sea by utilizing seaweed’s natural ability to absorb excess nutrients, thereby contributing to improved water quality and ecological restoration.

Central to the design is the concept of friction generated through walking, which facilitates the dispersal of native seeds and nutrients into the soil, promoting regional biodiversity. The footwear is specifically designed for postal delivery workers, who regularly traverse both urban and rural landscapes. By integrating seed dispersal into their daily movements, the shoes support local conservation initiatives and enhance biodiversity while contributing to the broader restoration efforts of the Baltic Sea ecosystem.

Through a combination of material innovation and ecological design, this project aims to create a tangible intervention that connects human activity with environmental regeneration.