Plastic pollution is a vital problem in modern times. Many companies like Patagonia, G-Star Raw, DGrade, Ecoalf, Nike, ADAY are recycling plastic waste to create new garments. Another Japanese retailer is coming forward to contribute in the climate change action and raise awareness among the consumers.
In corporation with Toray industries, Uniqlo is prepared to recycle plastic bottles for clothing.
The used polyethylene terephthalate bottles produce fibers that are already available in the market. Uniqlo stores will collect used Ultra-Light Down pieces and then Toray-developed system will run the extraction process. The produced materials will then be cleansed for use in new purchase. In Japan, the collection program has started in September 2019.
Founder and Chairman of Uniqlo, Tadashi Yanai said, “We will soon begin our new initiative with Toray that promotes the use of recycled materials. Through such an important partnership, we can continue to offer high-performance, high-quality and sustainable apparel to all customers across the globe”.
Akihiro Nikkaku, President of Toray Industries, added that the companies have challenged themselves to seek solutions for global social issues as they believe that ‘materials can change our lives.
This plastic waste recycling process has become a sustainable practice for many brands and retailers. In 2020, these apparels will be on sale in Singapore and other Asian countries.
