Oak Flats tradie Mike Hudson is set to spare his feet - and the environment - a tragic end by recycling his work boots.
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The veteran self-employed tradesman has binned dozens of pairs of boots over his 45-year career.
However, since learning about a new national boot recycling campaign, he plans to do his bit for the environment.
"We can all do our bit to be green; it's not hard to do."
The recycling program, a partnership between store Totally Workwear and environmental organisation Save Our Soles, has already rescued 22,868 pairs of worn-out boots from landfill.
Instead, the 11.5 tonnes of boots have been reborn as rubber floor mats, running tracks and playgrounds for children.
Mr Hudson said it was nice to know his beloved boots would be contributing to a good cause.
"It's funny to think they'll be turned into mats [and other things] but I think it's a good idea," he said.
"Kids might be out there playing on the playground and if they fall off the swings, they'll fall onto my old boots; at least we know where the materials are going."
Totally Workwear national sales manager Judy Ackerman said the campaign had already proved to be a great success.
"Not only have tradies really got behind it but some councils around the country have also jumped on board, either taking a bin to their own facilities to encourage staff to recycle or bringing them directly to us," she said.
In Australia, about three million pairs of work boots are purchased each year.
Most boots end up in landfill.
The recycling initiative allows tradies to recycle their old boots when they purchase a new pair.
Tradies interested in recycling their old work boots can take them to the Totally Workwear store in Fairy Meadow.