The Reuse-A-Shoe program turns all parts of your shoe into something useful. The fabric, foam and rubber get new life as basketball courts, tennis courts and tracks, respectively. Talk about a great way to reuse a shoe. Check with your local running store as they may collect shoes for recycling as well.

If you want to be greener from the get-go with your running shoe purchase, Brooks has come out with a biodegradable midsole. According to their site, traditional midsoles can last up to 1,000 years in a landfill. The Brooks midsole, however, will break down in 20 years, saving 29.9 million pounds of waste.

Of course, if your athletic shoes still have some life in them, you can donate them to a local charity.

As for me, I’ll be sure to drop-off my old shoes for recycling when I buy those new ones.

Are you trying to run but can’t find the time? Or perhaps you’re looking for a way to spice up your commute? Check out what actor Joseph Fiennes suggests.