Funded by the DfE, Climate Ambassadors match volunteer climate experts with education settings.
Part of Let’s Go Zero, Climate Action Advisors are independent experts who offer free support for schools, colleges, and nurseries across England.
About
Review your setting’s uniform policy and supply arrangements to reduce the environmental impact of school uniform while keeping it affordable, durable and fit for purpose.You should also think about what uniform items are needed, how long garments last and whether they can be reused.
Reducing the number of compulsory branded items and allowing generic alternatives is often one of the most effective ways to make uniform more affordable and sustainable.
If you’re a state school, remember to follow DfE school uniform guidance. Private schools do not need to follow DfE guidance on uniform and are therefore more flexible to set their own policies. In England, from September 2026, state schools must limit compulsory branded uniform and PE kit items to three or fewer, or four for secondary and middle schools where one item is a tie. Schools must also ensure second-hand uniform is available and publish information on how parents can buy it.
Why
School uniform can have a significant environmental impact through the materials used, manufacturing, transport and the frequency with which items need replacing. Durable clothing that can be repaired, passed on or purchased second-hand helps reduce waste and demand for new resources.
A simpler uniform policy, with fewer compulsory branded items, can also give families more choice over where they shop and make it easier to reuse garments between pupils and siblings. Working with parents, pupils and suppliers on uniform can be a practical way to engage your wider school community in sustainability.
How
- Prioritise durability and value for money: Choose garments that are well made, comfortable, easy to wash and likely to last. Consider quality and whole-life cost, rather than choosing solely on the initial purchase price.
- Consider materials and responsible sourcing: Where your setting influences product specifications, ask about the materials used, their origins and relevant environmental or social credentials. Consider whether finishes such as stain-resistant or non-iron treatments are necessary, and be cautious of broad claims such as “eco-friendly” without supporting evidence.
- Support repair, reuse and recycling: Work with suppliers and your school community to enable repairs, uniform swaps, donations, take-back schemes or textile recycling. Simpler designs and fewer permanent logos can make garments easier to reuse.
- Consider packaging and delivery: Where you select suppliers, look for opportunities to reduce unnecessary packaging, single-use plastics and the environmental impact of deliveries.
- Assess suppliers’ sustainability and social value: Where relevant, ask suppliers how they manage their environmental impacts and reduce emissions, and what evidence they can provide of responsible sourcing, fair working conditions and employment practices.
- Review procurement arrangements: If your setting uses a designated supplier, review the contract and consider whether the arrangements offer good value, choice and access to durable, lower-impact products. Check the relevant procurement requirements and seek advice where needed.
- A business manager may be best placed to start by looking at your setting’s uniform policy.
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