Eco-chic — URC Thailand kicks off upcycling uniform campaign

Universal Robina Corporation's (URC) Thailand office has ramped up its sustainability efforts with the «URGreen Upcycling Uniform Campaign.» The campaign, launched by the regional subsidiary, promotes recycling PET plastic bottles into uniforms, underscoring the importance of reducing carbon emissions and combating global warming.

The URGreen Upcycling Uniform Campaign aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 1.714 kg per shirt. Each uniform is crafted from 14 recycled 600ml PET water bottles collected between January and April 2024. In total, URC Thailand gathered 21,000 plastic bottles for the project.

By June, 1,500 shirts had been produced and distributed to employees, resulting in a CO2 emission reduction of 2,571 kg CO2e — equivalent to planting 215 trees.

URC Thailand employees were actively involved in the design process, with the winning design by Senior Employee Relations Supervisor Vichida Pengnum chosen for the company polo. To celebrate diversity and creativity, a fashion show was held where employees proudly showcased the new uniforms.

Looking ahead, URC Thailand plans to continue this initiative to further reduce plastic waste and carbon emissions, aiming to produce an additional 4,800 shirts, requiring 67,000 recycled plastic bottles.

Sustainable fashion is a priority for URC across its local and international arms. Last year, URC Flour partnered with local brands AraPilak and Aecovas Apparel to produce eco-friendly clothing using recycled cotton sacks.

In the Philippines, URC produces iconic brands such as Great Taste, C2 Cool & Clean, Piattos, Maxx candy, and Cream-O cookies, which have been staples in Filipino households for decades. As one of the country's largest food and beverage manufacturers, URC has a significant and growing presence in ASEAN, with leading regional brands including Lexus, Tivoli, and Fun-O.