Circoolar faq

We’re proud of our transparent supply chain and happy to answer all your questions.

FAQ’s

Common questions

Here are the answers to some of the questions we’re often asked.
If you’d like to know more, get in touch; we’re always happy to help.

Most of our garments are made from recycled PET-bottle polyester, organic cotton, or regenerated cotton (yarn extracted from other garments, both pre and post-consumption).

As it stands, it’s difficult to trace the origins of plastic waste reliably. What we can say is that it may come from pre-consumption waste (from manufacturers or bottling companies) or post-consumption (the containers we recycle after use).

Our objective is to help minimise the environmental impact of plastic and textile waste. We are committed to only using 100% recycled polyester and organic or regenerated cotton in our garments. Some types of clothing require a combination. But in all cases, ensuring future recyclability at the end of a garment’s useful life is an essential consideration when deciding on the percentage composition of that combination.

Our circular vision means we only use environmentally-friendly raw materials like organic or regenerated cotton. In the not too distant future, we may use other recycled or natural plant-based fabrics as well. We always ensure suitability for future recycling, positive social impact and of course, zero waste.

Actually, there are several. It’s estimated that its production produces almost 75% less CO2 emissions, uses 86% less water and 70% less energy.

We work with different suppliers for each and every one of the different phases of our circular social impact process. Have a look at the “production process” section of our website to see what those phases are.

We search for suppliers that comply with a series of social and environmental standards, in line with our business ethics. These standards include industry recognised stamps of approval and certifications like the Standard 100 OEKO-TEX®, the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), or the GOTS, to name but a few. Bear in mind that, if our suppliers work with ecological and sustainable materials, they too must put all their efforts into complying with the numerous and rigorous industry standards.

Recycled fabrics are of the same quality as any other fabric made from virgin raw materials, such as virgin polyester, which is made from petroleum. The only difference is that the thread-making process begins with plastic pellets obtained from plastic bottles and not with petroleum. By opting for recycled plastic, we produce a product of similar quality while simultaneously reducing and re-purposing a waste product at source, and of course, ensuring a second life for it after use.
At Circoolar, we talk about two design stages:
a) The “pure and simple” conventional design stage. We work alongside our clients to fulfil their design expectations, transmit their brand image and ensure the garment meets employee requirements. We understand the importance of “dressing” a business and concentrate all our efforts on getting it just right for our clients.

b) The “eco” dimension. The future recycling of a garment is conceived at the time of design. By considering the “eco” factor during design, we can help ensure its suitability for recycling. Environmental factors might affect our choice of thread when stitching the garment, the kinds of accessories or buttons we choose, the type of print or embroidery, the use of zips,…

By combining a and b, you arrive at a process we call Eco-Design, which allows us to fulfil our clients’ expectations when dressing their business, meet the practical needs of their employees in their day-to-day working lives and of course, respect the environment and sustainability of our planet.

Circoolar’s raison d’etre is circular sustainability based on zero waste. That’s why we offer a collection service for garments that have come to the end of their useful life as clothing. Because they are “returned” to us by means of a contract or rental agreement, we can guarantee their delivery to a textile recycling plant. This step ensures their second life and complies with the zero waste objective for both our customers and for ourselves.

Circoolar’s ecological workwear can be converted back into thread and regenerated fabric which is then used to make new clothes or household items such as cushion padding; it could also be used in the car industry for seat padding, floor mats, etc.

Fortunately, nowadays, many suppliers share Circoolar’s environmental concerns. We use recycled plastic bags (at least 50%), biodegradable bags or tissue paper. When the employee receives their item of clothing or uniform, they can reuse the bag or paper for other purposes. Our emails and newsletters are full of ideas for re-purposing them!

We work with several foundations who campaign, at a national level, to promote workplace reintegration for disadvantaged sectors of society and particularly for women at risk of social exclusion.
Those foundations include Fundación ARED, Fundación Roure, Ellas lo Bordan, and Proyecto Hilanderas, CIRE, among others.

That depends on the specifics of our agreement with you, but options could include repairing or replacing the garment. Tell us what you need, and we’ll tailor our service to suit you!

At Circoolar, we are committed to zero waste and are determined to stick to it.
For this reason, delivery will be a matter of weeks, rather than a matter of hours. How many? That depends on the order’s size, whether the garments are standard issue design or must be eco-designed from scratch, the type of fabric required and of course, the time of year.

Let us know what your business needs!

If you have any further questions or need more information, please do get in touch. We’d be delighted to hear from you.