Leo Loop Initiative
We recognise this challenge is bigger than us, and encourage industry collaboration and UK government backing
We have a responsibility to securely dispose of garments at the end of life.
The problem
Tens of millions of tonnes of textile waste is generated globally every year, with a large proportion ending up in landfills or incinerated rather than recycled. Only a very small percentage is actually reused or recycled into new garments. Textiles decompose slowly, especially synthetic fibres, which can take decades to centuries to break down. In landfill conditions, decomposition releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Furthermore, incinerating textile waste also releases CO2 and other pollutants, further worsening air quality and warming. In Europe, textile consumption places one of the highest pressures on water and land use among all consumer categories.
The rise of fast fashion has accelerated production and waste generation, shortening garment lifespans and increasing disposal. At Leo, we have a conscious and considerate rate of production and refrain from constantly turning over new designs. Our W01 Tarka waistcoat was one of the original waistcoats we produced in 1985 and is still in production today.
The Leo Loop Initiative
The Leo Loop Initiative represents our commitment to 0 landfill and ensures there is a solution for every Leo customer. The nature of high visibility clothing, unfortunately, means that it no longer conforms to ISO 20471 after a certain number of washes. In addition, high visibility workwear is most commonly worn in demanding environments such as construction sites, where exposure to dirt, abrasion, and wear is unavoidable.
At Leo, we pride ourselves on creating every garment to the highest quality, ensuring that our garments last as long as possible. However, when a garment does reach the point where it no longer conforms, we have multiple different options for our customers to choose from…
All items collected are processed through the most sustainable streams possible. You will also be provided with certified destruction and a full audit trail.
Secure shredding and recycling
Repurposing
Send used high vis clothing to our recycling partners. They will then shred the garments and repurpose them into dog beds.
Rebrand, repair or chemical recycling
Full circular solution provider for PPE, workwear and uniform. This includes a polyester depolymerisation process, which means workwear can be recycled back into as-good-as-new feedstock materials ready for remanufacture back into new polyester.
They also offer laundry, repair, and rebranding services for garments that require branding updates and removal.
Donation
This solution is ideal for surplus stock that is no longer required. Our partner will redistribute these items to charities, ensuring they reach the communities where they are needed most.
Email: leocares@leoworkwear.com to arrange the best solution for you