International Brand GU’s “RE.GU” (リユース＆リサイクル) campaign—a sustainability initiative rooted in Japan but with global impact. I find it across on randomly by roaming on AEON mall Ota city, situated Ishiharacho, Gunma Prefecture, Japan. A lots of brand’s outlets I can find here the GU wa among them. The Reusable and recycling campaign is just attacked me a lot.
★Reused and Recycled Dropoff
You can also check out my post about Recycling Shop: 2nd Street
RE.GU Campaign in Japan: Overview
RE.GU is GU’s ongoing initiative to reuse and recycle all products—including items from UNIQLO and PLST—collected through store drop-off boxes.
It aims to reduce waste (REDUCE) through reuse (REUSE) and recycling (RECYCLE)
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Reusable items are donated to refugees, disaster-affected communities, and other people in need, in collaboration with UNHCR and various NGOs and NPOs.
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Non-reusable items are transformed into materials like automotive soundproofing or alternative fuel.
★Entrance De GU outlet
Recent & Noteworthy Activities in Japan
1. Children’s Clothing Donation Event
Starting in January 2024, GU partnered with the MIRAI KODOMO Foundation to host special donation events for children’s clothing at Japanese orphanages. GU employees help children choose and enjoy outfits—making the experience both meaningful and uplifting.
2. “Power of Clothing” School Program
Through “届けよう、服のチカラ” (“Deliver the Power of Clothing”), GU and UNIQLO send staff to elementary, junior, and senior high schools across Japan to teach students about recycling and sustainability. Students then lead clothing collection drives, with donated clothes sent to refugees. Participating schools also receive follow-up photo reports.
★Power of Clothing
3. June Recycling Campaign & Eco Bag Events
In recent summers, GU has amplified its sustainability efforts:
- Customers bringing in clothing receive app reward points—sometimes increased from 10 to 100 miles during June campaigns. These miles can also be donated.
- Stores host eco-bag customization events, letting customers decorate reusable bags while learning about environmental issues like ocean plastic pollution.
4. Ongoing Collection Service
GU continues to accept unwanted GU, UNIQLO, and PLST clothing at its store drop-off boxes. Clothes should be laundered and free of personal items.
★Clothing Collection Box
★RE.GU Resue and recycle campaign
What Has RE.GU Achieved?
- As of August 2023, GU (with UNIQLO) had supported 54.63 million items across 80 countries and regions.
- By August 2024, this grew to 58.97 million items across 81 countries and regions.
★Why This Matters
Environmental Impact
Extends garment life, diverts waste from landfills, and conserves resources.
Social Impact
Delivers clothing to those in need—especially refugees, disaster survivors, and children.
Educational Value
Cultivates awareness and responsibility in youth through school programs and hands-on involvement.
Family Engagement
Events like eco-bag decorating make sustainability fun and actionable.
★GU outlet view
Opening/Closing: Everyday Open from 10:00- 21:00
Wheelchair accessibility: Yes Accessible:white_check_mark:
Have Wheelchair accessible car parking
Wheelchair accessible restroom
★Wheelchai Accessible Car Parking
Clothing Recycling Spots", “
Accessible Fashion & Recycling Stores”, “
Eco-Friendly Shopping"
. I hope it will reduce waste of cloth. Recycling is the key of green future. thanks for share 