Expanding hat recycling to promote circularity and community engagement

Specialty hat shop OVERRIDE has expanded its hat recycling service to 25 stores last month. Customers who bring in unwanted hats can exchange them for coupons to use on new purchases, promoting circular practices with customer incentives.

Recycled hats will be resold or creatively upcycled by artists, with the proceeds, after costs, donated to the non-profit organisation CLOUDY to support African aid efforts. Hats that cannot be resold due to wear or damage are repurposed into “PANECO®,” a sustainable material crafted from discarded textile fibres. This recyclable fibreboard mimics the strength and versatility of wood, making it suitable for furniture, interior designs, and display fixtures. PANECO®’s unique textures and colours also highlight the possibilities of sustainable design.

OVERRIDE celebrates the 20th of every month as “Hats Off Day” to raise awareness about its recycling initiative and engage the community. On January 20, 2025, the event will feature artist hico, known for thread crafts, who will transform Basque berets into vibrant, one-of-a-kind creations. These reimagined berets will be available for purchase, showcasing the artistic potential of upcycling.

The circular project aligns with OVERRIDE’s mission, “Happy Hat Company: Bringing Happiness Through Hats,” and its commitment to sustainability. To celebrate its 100th anniversary, the company adopted the slogan “Coexistence of Hats, Earth, and Society,” reflecting its dedication to eco-friendly practices.

The project also addresses customer concerns about discarding wearable hats and taps into the rising appeal of second-hand items among younger generations, who value their uniqueness. To support this trend, OVERRIDE obtained a second-hand dealer’s licence to support this trend. Through its collaborations and dedication to upcycling and recycling, OVERRIDE is reducing fashion waste and contributing to a circular economy.