From consumables to resources. A new step in sock recycling.
The reality is that socks wear out quickly, and many end up being thrown away as garbage. TARROW TOKYO is taking on the challenge of recycling socks using the new material PlaX™️. Together with Bioworks, the developer of PlaX™️, we have launched a "sock recycling project" to collect socks that have been used for a certain period of time and conduct a demonstration experiment to "regenerate" and "recycle" them as raw materials. Let's take on the challenge together towards a future where resources are recycled.
What is PlaX™️?
PlaX™ is a new environmentally friendly material developed from biomass material (polylactic acid) derived from sugar cane.
One of its features is that it can be "chemically recycled" to return it to its raw materials after use, which allows resources to be recycled without being wasted.
Another advantage is that it has natural properties that prevent unpleasant odors. It is a material that provides both comfort and environmental friendliness.
*PlaX™ is a new plant-derived material developed through Bioworks' many years of research and development.
Steps for a sock recycling project
1. Receive the socks
Customers who purchase products at TARROW TOKYO between Thursday, May 1st and Monday, June 30th, 2025, should check the box displayed on the cart screen saying "I agree to the project and would like to receive the socks" to complete their purchase.
If you check this box, socks will be included with your purchase.
2. Wear socks
Please use the socks as you normally would.
There is no limit to the number of times you can wear it, and you can participate in the project by using it more than once.
3. Place used socks in a collection bag and send them off
In late July, we will send you a collection kit (collection bag and return envelope) and a new pair of socks.
Place your used socks in a bag and drop it in the post within about a week of receiving the collection kit.
It's okay if there are holes or stains.
Anyone who returns the socks will receive a new pair of socks as a thank you for participating in the project.
4. Dismantling socks and turning them into yarn
In this demonstration experiment, the collected socks will be chemically decomposed using "chemical recycling" technology, and after removing dirt and foreign matter, they will be regenerated into usable raw materials.
These raw materials can then be used to produce new yarn.
FAQ
Q. Can I recycle items that are dirty or worn out?
A. It doesn't matter how dirty or worn out it is.
Q. I don't want other people to see or touch my worn-out shoes.
A. In this demonstration experiment, the collection bags will not be opened and will be recycled together with the bags made from the same materials as the socks, so please rest assured that your worn-out socks will not be seen or touched by anyone during the process.
Q. How much effort does it take to return the item?
A4: It doesn't take much effort. All you have to do is put the socks into the bag and return materials included in the collection kit and drop it in the post.
Other questions
A1: The collected socks will be used in a demonstration experiment of chemical recycling using PlaX™️ material. This experiment aims to confirm the possibility of reusing socks and establish an environmentally friendly recycling method.
A2: The collected socks are separated into PlaX™ material and other materials. The PlaX™ material is then recycled and reused as new raw materials.
A3: We will send a collection kit to those who participate in the project in late July 2025. Please return the kit with the socks you used in the collection kit inside. We will cover the shipping costs for the return.
A4: We will send new socks to those who participate in the project along with the collection kit. These new socks will not be collected, so please use them for a long time.
A5: We have prepared a sufficient number of products so that we can deliver them to as many customers as possible, but as numbers are limited, they will be sold out once they are gone. Thank you for your understanding.
How to participate in the project
Customers who purchase products at TARROW TOKYO between Thursday, May 1st and Monday, June 30th, 2025, should check the box displayed on the cart screen saying "I agree to the project and would like to receive the socks" to complete their purchase.
If you check this box, socks will be included with your purchase.
*Socks are available in limited quantities and will be available until they are gone.
We will then send out collection kits for your worn socks and new pairs of socks in late July 2025.
Please put your used socks inside the collection kit and return it approximately one week after receiving it.
Once the collected socks have been recycled, we will email all participants with the results.
We also plan to report the news on the TARROW official website and social media.
TARROW TOKYO × bioworks original socks
Ribbed socks with excellent antibacterial and deodorizing properties
TARROW RIBBED SOCKS
PlaX™ material has antibacterial and anti-odor properties, and the delicate knitting structure fits gently around the ankle, making it soft and comfortable to wear.
The soles are decorated with the TARROW TOKYO logo for a subtle accent. Additionally, the brand's mascot, "Taro-chan," is embroidered on the soles for a playful touch.
One of the charms of this item is the carefully designed length, which blends naturally with both sneakers and leather shoes.
［Product Information］
Ingredients: 47% cotton, 20% polylactic acid (PLAX™), 20% polyester, 10% nylon, 3% polyurethane
Country of Origin: Japan
Color: OFF-WHITE
Size: FREE (23cm~28cm)
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