Singapore Post (SingPost) has launched an upcycling initiative to give its iconic blue uniforms a new lease of life as lifestyle products, available to purchase by members of the public.
Nearly 33,000 old uniforms weighing 12 metric tons were replaced last year as part of SingPost’s uniform redesign. The uniforms were used in the Re:Post initiative to create 12 lifestyle products, including water-repellent tote bags, tissue holders, cushion covers and picnic mats.
SingPost partnered with three homegrown social enterprises – Alfya Atelier, Our Barehands and Social Gifting X South West Community Development Council (SWCDC) – in designing and producing the 12 products, which were made from standard-issue uniforms including shirts, cargo pants, windbreakers and raincoats. The products are available for sale and all proceeds will be donated in full to SWCDC.
Robin Goh, group chief brand and communications officer for SingPost, said, “By upcycling our old uniforms instead of just disposing of them, we are doing our part in minimizing the amount of waste produced and reusing the materials for practical use. By supporting local social enterprises, Alfya Atelier, Our Barehands and Social Gifting X SWCDC have created work opportunities for the communities they are assisting, while producing beautiful, unique and practical items that embody SingPost’s core values and history.”
Low Yen Ling, mayor of South West District, said, “The CDC’s efforts in sustainability will continue to deepen and widen in support of the SG Green Plan 2030 goals. Through this campaign, we hope to inspire more people to change from a throwaway culture to living more sustainably.
“With some creativity and skills, upcycling can take place anywhere. When old resources are regenerated, new possibilities are created. This project is an example of a circular economy at work – when waste is reduced and the transformation of old postmen uniforms spur jobs and skill development instead, and sales of handcrafted products go to benefit caregivers and residents in need.
“As we mark a very memorable World Post Day with this Re:Post initiative, we want to pay tribute to all postal workers and those at SingPost who have kept the nation’s essential services going, rain or shine, amid the pandemic.”