The School Uniform Reuse Network, launched by London’s four statutory waste authorities, is a cross-borough initiative designed to help schools and families cut uniform waste, lower costs, and support more sustainable clothing habits.
Backed by London Councils through its Climate Programme, the scheme offers schools resources through a dedicated website, including guides, case studies, and tools for tracking the impact of uniform reuse schemes like swap shops and second-hand sales.
Cllr Rezina Chowdhury, vice chair of London Councils’ transport and environment committee, said: “School uniforms often have a shorter lifespan than they should, despite the resources and cost involved in producing them.
“By helping schools to make it easier for families to pass uniforms on and buy them second-hand, this new network can reduce waste while also easing the financial pressures many households face.”
Uniform reuse schemes give families the option to access good-quality schoolwear at lower prices, reducing household expenditure while preventing clothing from going to landfill.
Supporters of the project say it also helps to reduce the stigma around second-hand clothing, promoting confident participation in reuse schemes from an early age.
The environmental case for reuse is clear. The global textiles industry is responsible for eight to ten per cent of all carbon emissions, and producing a single cotton T-shirt requires around 2,700 litres of water.
Extending the life of a garment by nine months is estimated to reduce its carbon, water, and waste footprint by around 20 per cent.
The network will also help schools comply with new legislation expected to take effect from September 2026.
From that date, schools will be required to inform parents of where second-hand uniforms can be bought and to make this option available before the start of the new academic year.
Limits will also be introduced on the number of compulsory branded items.
Cllr Chowdhury added: “By making reuse more visible and accessible, we can make second-hand uniforms the standard across London – benefiting families, schools and the environment alike.”
