By minimizing waste and reducing its environmental footprint,
UNIQLO is working to build a truly sustainable business.
The environmental impact of plastic is growing worldwide. It is estimated that every year 8 million tons of new plastic enters into our seas, adding to the estimated 150 million tons that are already in our marine environments.
Reducing single-use plastic
UNIQLO has decided to reduce single-use plastic in its stores, beginning September 2019 by phasing out plastic shopping bags, and continuing throughout 2020 by reducing the amount of single-use plastic in its product packaging.
Sustainability Measure①
From September 2019, UNIQLO will begin switching to environmentally-friendly shopping bags, made from FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified paper or recycled paper.
FSC forest management certification confirms that the forest is being managed in a way that preserves biological diversity and benefits the lives of local people and workers, while ensuring it sustains economic viability.
Sustainability Measure②
From 2019 Fall, UNIQLO will start eliminating the use of plastic in packaging of certain items such as room shoes.
UNIQLO will also begin verification testing aimed at switching from plastic packaging for HEATTECH, AIRism, and other innerwear to more environmentally-friendly materials.
Sustainability Measure③
From September 2019, all UNIQLO stores worldwide will begin selling Eco-friendly Bag with the goal of reducing the use of traditional shopping bags, and making effective use of resources, such as paper.
Sustainability Measure④
To promote the use of reusable bags, all UNIQLO stores in select markets* will begin charging for paper shopping bags from September 2019*.
*From September 2020 in Japan
Fast Retailing Group plans to reduce the amount of single-use plastic handed to customers at its stores worldwide, such as shopping bags and product packaging, by 85%, or around 7,800 tons annually, by the end of 2020.
Next challenges
UNIQLO is considering eliminating the use of single use plastic in its hangers, size seals and packing material used in logistics. Where the characteristics of plastic is still necessary, UNIQLO will consider switching to eco-friendly substitutes.