Operation Upcycle Information

Every year, thousands of military uniforms are retired due to damage, design updates, or end of service life. Many can’t be resold and risk ending up in waste streams, contributing to the 711,000 tonnes of post-consumer textiles discarded each year in the UK. But each garment carries marks of service - telling stories of the people who wore them, and of the heritage and history of our armed forces. Something that we shouldn’t let go to waste. Through the innovation of Ramco, the creativity of UK fashion students, and the dedication of veterans’ charities, we’re transforming thousands of ex-military garments into something extraordinary; sustainable, contemporary fashion with purpose. But this is about more than just tackling textile waste. The impact of Operation Upcycle will be wide-ranging, creating opportunities for education and employment in UK based textile design and manufacturing that will contribute to the circular economy. Find out more at www.operationupcycle.co.uk