That organizing a major event like the NATO summit is a significant task is widely known. That’s why the organization of the summit, which took place in the Netherlands at the end of June, gave all employees a fitting gift. They received a towel made from military uniforms.
50,000 towels from army uniforms
For the project, the Ministry of Defence collaborated with Spinning Jenny, a local company that transforms discarded textiles into new yarns, which are then used to create various products. This time, the result was towels made from 40% old army uniforms. And it clearly shows, since the towels are dark green and feature an elegant embroidery referring to the NATO summit.
It was quite a task. According to Paula Gerritsen, owner of Spinning Jenny, Defence contacted her well in advance of the NATO summit with the idea. A total of 50,000 towels needed to be produced, one for every employee or volunteer involved in the project.
Recycling military uniforms is not easy
It’s a thoughtful and fitting gift, as the military is a major theme for politicians attending the NATO summit. But it’s also a great way to give military uniforms, which are notoriously difficult to recycle, a new purpose.
Unlike corporate clothing, military uniforms often include many badges and different types of materials. This makes it difficult to shred and reuse them. Everything has to be removed first. On top of that, the security aspect plays a major role as well. Defence obviously doesn’t want the uniforms to end up in the hands of people with bad intentions.
The Netherlands is working on various projects
To give large quantities of old military uniforms a second life, the Dutch Ministry of Defence is working on several projects. Uniforms that are still in good condition are sent to the Ukrainian army. Before they’re shipped, Dutch logos are removed. This is done by inmates in a Dutch prison, where people are experienced in recycling workwear and uniforms.
The uniforms that aren’t fit for reuse are donated to workshops where people with a distance to the labor market work. At places like Remade Industry, they turn the still-usable fabric into tote bags, toiletry bags, and first aid kits. They do similar projects with old police, ambulance, and fire brigade uniforms. Additionally, Defence puts a small portion of the old uniforms up for auction, where collectors and enthusiasts can purchase them.
Recycling takes some effort and creativity, but it’s more than worth it. And let’s be honest: who wouldn’t want a bag, pencil case, or towel made from a military uniform? Beyond the sustainable aspect, it’s just plain cool.
Photo Credit: Sidney Latuperissa
