Green Tips #7 – How Sustainable Is Your School Uniform? Small Shifts Now, Big Impact Later

Green Tips is a monthly column featuring insights from Jason Giovannettone, Director of Climate & Sustainability for the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. This series will offer practical, actionable advice to help our schools embrace more eco-friendly practices, aligning with our commitment to the Mercy Critical Concern for Earth.

For many private schools, school uniforms are a long-established tradition. While uniforms promote a sense of community and reduce wardrobe pressure for families, the sustainability of these garments is often overlooked. Understandably, the idea of revisiting uniform policies can feel daunting, but rethinking your school’s uniform practices doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing endeavor. Even small, thoughtful steps today can move your community toward a more sustainable future.

What Makes a Uniform More (or Less) Sustainable?

Materials

School uniforms are typically made at least in part from synthetic materials (e.g., polyester, nylon) and dyes.  Natural fibers such as cotton, wool, or hemp are a more sustainable option, especially if they are certified organic.  Organic farming requires less energy and water, produces less carbon emissions, and prevents the use of synthetic fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and pesticides, thus promoting soil health and reducing water contamination downstream.  Some companies use recycled bottles, which does reduce the amount of virgin materials required; the issue is that microplastics are still released into the environment during washing and disposal.

Reuse

One easy first step: Encourage uniform reuse. If your school doesn’t already have a system in place, consider launching a uniform resale or donation program. Some vendors even offer digital platforms that make reselling and repurchasing easier for families. These programs reduce waste, lower costs, and build community spirit.

Production and Supply Chain Ethics

Look beyond the garment. Ask whether your vendor is working toward carbon neutrality and whether they can verify ethical practices throughout their supply chain. Key indicators include fair labor policies, safe working conditions, and environmental safeguards. Transparent sourcing is becoming a growing expectation in education, and rightly so.

Packaging

Uniform orders typically arrive in plastic bags and non-recyclable packaging. Some companies are beginning to shift to paper-based, plastic-free shipping materials. It may seem minor, but reducing single-use packaging is a visible and meaningful way to model environmental responsibility.

Advocacy

Not ready to change vendors? Start by asking questions.  Is the company willing to provide a uniform made from natural materials and dyes?  Do they have sustainability goals?  Would they be willing to ship your uniform in plastic-free materials?  Does the company have a policy surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion? Opening these conversations can lead to long-term improvements, especially when multiple schools advocate together.

Sustainable Options

The following school uniform vendors are trying to do it right: Kapes, Mini Mioche, and Organic Apparel USA.  Make sure to check out the information they provide on their websites regarding the sustainability of their clothing. Even if a full switch isn’t feasible right now, learning about these companies can offer inspiration and benchmarks for future decisions.

We’d Love to Hear From You

Has your school already taken steps toward a greener uniform policy? Do you have a resale program or a vendor who shares your sustainability goals? We’d love to highlight your success and share your ideas with others in the Mercy Education community. Reach out and let us know!