#Japan #Okayama #EcoPro 2025 #Kanko Seifuku #Sustainable Uniforms

Kanko Seifuku's Eco-Friendly Innovations Unveiled at EcoPro 2025

The Kanko Student Uniform Company, based in Okayama, showcased its commitment to sustainability at the EcoPro 2025 exhibition held from December 10 to 12 at Tokyo Big Sight. Organized by the Japan Sustainable Management Organization and the Nikkei newspaper, the event highlighted innovative approaches to environmental issues, especially concerning the challenge of plastic waste.

Kanko Seifuku's research institution, the Student Engineering Laboratory, put the spotlight on various eco-friendly initiatives, including uniforms made from recycled fishing nets, biodegradable synthetic fibers, and apparel designed to combat extreme heat conditions. These innovations reflect the company's dedication to promoting a sustainable future while ensuring that students enjoy comfortable and secure school lives.

Exhibits Highlighted

1. Marine and Eco-Friendly Uniforms (Fishing Net Recycling): In collaboration with the Alliance for the Blue, Kanko Seifuku aims to address the marine plastic pollution problem and raise environmental awareness through fishing net recycling projects. The initiative repurposes discarded fishing nets into uniforms, thus contributing to resource efficiency and ocean conservation efforts.

2. Soil and Eco-Friendly Fabrics: Partnering with Murata Manufacturing Co., PIEQREX Corp, and Okayama's Nishida High School, Kanko is exploring the use of biodegradable synthetic materials. The project includes recovering post-consumer clothing and converting it into compost at the Murata facility while focusing on educational efforts at Nishida High School.

3. Heat Adaptation Apparel: With rising global temperatures and increased summer days in Japan, Kanko Seifuku has developed cooling clothing featuring fans to ensure students remain comfortable during outdoor activities.

4. Recycling of Discarded Uniform Fabrics: Through the recycling of plaid uniform fabric used in skirts and trousers, Kanko demonstrates the potential for black dye recycling to breathe new life into materials that would otherwise be discarded.

Workshop Activities

At the exhibition, participants had the opportunity to engage in a workshop focused on minimizing fabric waste when constructing uniform components. This educational initiative underscores Kanko Seifuku's commitment to sustainability from both an industrial and educational perspective.

The Vision Behind the Fishing Net Uniforms

Fuchiwa, a leading developer at Kanko Seifuku, expressed a deep personal connection to the task of preserving the ocean’s beauty. As someone who frequented the sea in childhood, Fuchiwa finds immense joy and pride in contributing to environmental preservation through this unique school uniform initiative. The goal is not just to produce high-quality garments, but also to instill a sense of pride in students. Wearing these uniforms will remind them of their role in safeguarding marine ecosystems. Furthermore, Kanko Seifuku aims to ensure that students have access to comfortable, durable uniforms throughout their academic journey.

About the Kanko Student Engineering Laboratory

Kanko’s Student Engineering Laboratory employs a holistic approach to address the needs of children by focusing on four key perspectives: body, mind, era, and learning. This commitment to research and collaboration with like-minded organizations highlights the mission of creating valuable experiences for students and their communities. By staying open to partnerships, Kanko Seifuku endeavors to contribute significantly to ensuring safe and enjoyable school lives, aligning with the aspirations of students and parents alike.

For more information, visit Kanko Seifuku.

About Kanko Seifuku Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1854, Kanko Seifuku has been committed to supporting students and the essential figures surrounding their educational journey. Through school uniforms and physical education wear, Kanko Seifuku works proactively to address various social issues, establishing itself as a solution-oriented company dedicated to enhancing the student experience.