CHICAGO, IL — Cintas rolled out a new recyclable uniform this week made from a combination of recycled plastic bottles and "eco-charcoal" derived from coconut shells and nano-bamboo particles.

Used Full Circle Eco Polo shirts can be sent back to the company to be repurposed for other uses, which Cintas said is new for the uniform market.

"The biggest thing is this is a closed-loop process," said Sarah Makeijus, a merchandising manager with Cintas. "There are not many peple doing this today."

The Eco Polo contains half recycled polyester, made from used plastic bottles. The eco-charcoal comprising the other half is the same type of substance used in water purifiers.

The shirts are certified to the bluesign standard, which explains the price premium between the Eco Polo and other conventional shirts, Makeijus said. The unisex Eco Polo costs around $30.

"Every stage of the supply chain is validated and verified down to the buttons and thread ... because of that, it is priced a little bit higher."

Cintas has made a concerted push over the last few years to incorporate more recycled materials into their uniforms. Its environmentally friendly uniforms have been favorably received by lodging and healthcare customers, in particular. the company hopes it can one day incorporate more environmentally friendly materials into its entire product line, Makeijus said.

Aside from the environmental aspects, the Eco Polo material boasts a range of attributes attractive for corporate uniforms, according to Cintas: quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant, mildew-proof and heat-resistant.