Creating Sustainable Practices
Recycling: At Harlequin, we believe that reducing our carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices where possible is essential for the well-being of our planet and future generations. Our commitment to sustainability manifests in two key initiatives designed to minimise waste, encourage recycling, and foster a circular economy within our industry.

Recycling Workwear Uniforms
Our first sustainability program is the provision of recycled clothing bins for workwear uniforms and corporate clothing. This initiative serves a dual purpose: it supports recycling efforts and promotes a circular economy by ensuring that old uniforms are given a new lease on life. For our clients, we provide easy access to these bins by either installing them in their workplace or having access to the bins that are permanently stationed at our offices, making it convenient for them to recycle their used workwear and corporate garments. Within our own operations, we also encourage our own team to participate actively in this program, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability from within the organisation.
In a world of fast fashion, 350,000 tonnes of used but still wearable clothing goes into landfill in the UK every year. But this represents only 30% of all the unwanted clothing, with the rest often sold or given to charity. For PPE, workwear, and corporate uniforms however, the straight-to-landfill figure is closer to 90%.
By recycling workwear uniforms, we help reduce the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills.
Recyclable Vinyl and Digital Media
Our dedication to sustainability extends beyond textiles to include the materials we use in our signage and printing operations. Coloured vinyl, digital media, and laminates from our main supplier are 100% recyclable. This means that nearly all material used in our sign writing and printing processes is reprocessed and repurposed, ensuring that next to no waste from these products ends up in landfills.
Significant Waste Reduction
Through our two active recycling programs, we are proud to announce that we save on average, approximately a 1 metric tonne bag of waste per month from reaching landfills. This substantial reduction in waste is a direct result of our commitment to sustainable practices and our efforts to integrate recycling into our operations.
Promoting a Greener Future
Our sustainability initiatives here at Harlequin Clothing, Print & Signage are not just about meeting regulatory requirements or enhancing our corporate image—they are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the environment we are a part of. We understand that every small step counts, and by implementing these recycling programs, we are contributing to a larger movement towards environmental stewardship.
But our journey doesn’t stop here. We are continually exploring new ways to enhance our sustainability efforts. This includes researching innovative recycling technologies and wherever possible, partnering with eco-friendly and environmentally conscious suppliers.
Our Commitment to Continuous Improvement
At Harlequin, we recognise that sustainability is an ongoing process and we are committed to continuous improvement.
We believe that by working together with our clients, employees, and partners, we can achieve a more sustainable future. Our recycling programs for workwear uniforms and sign writing vinyl are just the beginning. We are excited about the future and look forward to introducing more innovative initiatives that will help us further reduce our carbon footprint going forward.
Conclusion
Although we are only at the start and have a long way to go on our journey, Harlequin’s desire and dedication to sustainability is evident in our recycling programs and our commitment to using recyclable materials where possible. We are making significant strides towards reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. Saving approximately a 1 metric tonne bag of waste per month from reaching landfills is a testament to the effectiveness of our continued efforts. We are proud of our initiatives so far, and look forward to what we can achieve going forward in the future.