Last Updated: 2010.05.25
to Japanese page
Maximizing the value of our clothes
AT UNIQLO, we consider it is our responsibility to not only produce and provide truly great clothing that can be worn for a long time, but also to make the most of the value of clothing through collecting, reusing and recycling our used products. We continue to run the All-Product Recycling Initiative throughout the year.
At UNIQLO stores, we accept any UNIQLO products that customers no longer need. The collected garments are donated to refugee camps worldwide to be reused, or recycled to produce electricity or industrial fiber.
All-Product Recycling Initiative overview
The All-Product Recycling Initiative began in 2001 with the Fleece Recycling Program, which was expanded to include all collected UNIQLO items beginning in 2006. Through this initiative, we reuse and recycle products received from our customers with the objective of ensuring the products serve beneficial purposes throughout their lifecycle while generating no waste. Our initial intention was to recycle the clothes as fuel, but with the cooperation of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), we started donating the clothes to refugee camps. After recognizing once more the great need for clothing and the critical role it plays, our focus has shifted from recycling to reuse. To that end, approximately 90% of the clothing we collect is donated to refugee camps the world over, including those in Nepal, Ethiopia and Georgia. To facilitate our decision-making process, we not only check shortages of clothing but also conduct research on levels of demand, taking into consideration season and size, religiously appropriate color, and details concerning differences in local culture. In addition, to avoid theft and reselling during transit to the refugee camps, we go to the sites ourselves and distribute the items with the cooperation of the UNHCR.
※UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)
A UN organization established in 1950 for support of refugees. Works on solutions for refugee problems through protection and support of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Received Nobel Peace Prizes in 1954 and 1981. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the UNHCR develops its activities worldwide.
Collection period, location and acceptable items
Collection period: Year-round (We accept items at any time.)
Collection location： Any UNIQLO store in Japan (Accepted directly from the customer)
Valid items： Any product sold in UNIQLO stores
Requests to participating customers
How Products are Recycled
Items collected
Our Efforts in Refugee Relief
Information about our relief activities for refugees.
Photo Report on All-Product Recycling Initiative
Take a look at a range of images from our clothing relief activities at refugee camps.
