Finnair recycles old uniforms into park benches

To reduce their environmental footprint and pave the way towards sustainability, Finnair, Finland’s flag carrier, is recycling worn-out uniforms to convert them into outdoor items like benches. It is one-of-a-kind initiative to boost its commitment to a greener aviation industry.

The airline has cooperated with the Finnish work-clothing manufacturer Image Wear to convert old, used uniforms into some useful products.

Image Wear has expertise in converting worn-out uniforms into raw materials that can be used further in composite materials. These materials are then made into new, hard-wearing products, including tables and benches, explained Merja Lindberg, Finnair Uniform Manager.

Kati Tukiainen, Image Wear Responsibility Manager, commented on Finnair’s new recycling campaign and also explained the advantages of composite materials.

The lifespan of composite products is up to 50 years and so, they are quite durable. These items can be recycled again at the end of their lifecycle and can be converted into new products. This prevents the clothes being ended up as waste while also progressively extending their lifespan.