Payless ShoeSource sells "green" shoes, handbags

Retailer Payless ShoeSource is rolling out ecologically friendly shoes and handbags that will initially raise money to plant trees in Brazil.

The Topeka-based chain announced Monday that it has begun selling products under the Zoe & Zac brand that use organic cotton and linen, recycled rubber outsoles and water-soluble glues. All of the products, also including jewelry and socks, are priced under $30, preserving the chain's reputation for bargain footwear.

Parent company Collective Brands Inc. said it will donate to The Nature Conservancy $1 for every Zoe & Zac item sold through May 4 and every reusable Payless shopping bag sold throughout the year. The group plans to use the money to rebuild the Atlantic Forest in Brazil.

The company said it's committed to raising at least $100,000.