Design Graduates Collaborate to Transform Waste ‘Gig Economy’ Uniforms into Eco-Friendly Bags

A Fresh Take on Sustainability: Angus Clifford’s Collaboration with gomi

In a world grappling with waste management and sustainability, a promising collaboration between entrepreneur Angus Clifford and Tom Meades, the co-founder of the innovative brand gomi, is set to turn heads and spark conversations. Just this past summer, Clifford graduated from the University of Brighton with a degree in Product Design BSc (Hons), and now he’s stepping into the spotlight as he brings his eye-catching final year project to life.

The driving force behind this partnership? A shared mission to address the staggering amount of waste generated by courier uniforms. Each year, millions of these uniforms are distributed by popular food delivery companies like Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats. Unfortunately, the majority of these garments end up in landfills, contributing to the global waste crisis. Clifford’s groundbreaking project, highlighted during the university’s vibrant Graduate Summer Shows, presented a solution: a collection of bags crafted from discarded uniforms.

From Idea to Reality

When Clifford’s collection caught the attention of Tom Meades—who not only graduated from the same institution but also guest lectures there—their collaboration was born. Meades, now the chief designer at gomi, recognized Clifford’s potential and invited him to work together on a range of stylish, practical bags. These bags are designed to carry gomi’s power banks and everyday technology while maintaining a strong emphasis on sustainability.

The bags are uniquely handmade at Plus X Innovation in Brighton. This partnership was made possible after Angus was awarded a residency there to develop his limited collection after graduation. Meades expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Each bag’s unique combination of colors, textures, and functionality reflects the waste materials sourced from courier uniforms. It’s amazing how something that was once considered trash can be reborn into a desirable product.”

Angus Clifford’s Vision

Clifford’s commitment to sustainability is deeply rooted in his educational journey at Brighton University. He shared, “My experience studying Product Design has shaped my social and environmental conscience—a key value that drives my design work.” His passion lies in exploring the concept of a circular economy, particularly in how to repurpose waste textiles. “I may not find the ultimate solution for recycling all 33 million courier uniforms, but I aim to raise awareness,” he continued, emphasizing the significance of storytelling through design.

By taking seemingly “unloved” materials and transforming them into beautiful, functional products, he hopes to inspire others to reconsider their perception of waste. The unique bags tell a story of their previous existence, thus fostering a connection between consumers and the impact of their choices on the environment.

gomi: Pioneering Sustainability

Tom Meades’ brand gomi has garnered a reputation for pushing the boundaries of conventional consumer electronics through sustainability. Known for its eco-friendly products, including the gomi speaker and gomi power bank—all powered by repurposed e-bike batteries—gomi represents a new wave of brands that prioritize environmental responsibility.

The collaboration with Angus Clifford aligns with gomi’s core mission of transforming waste into desirable consumer products. The brand gained international fame in 2023 after making an impressive debut at Paris Fashion Week, showcasing its innovative designs on a global stage. Today, it’s not just a name but a movement towards conscious consumerism, with distinctions like being stocked in notable outlets such as the Design Museum and Goodhood in the UK, and even at the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

The Bigger Picture: Addressing Waste in Fashion

This collaboration transcends individual efforts; it highlights a broader issue in the fashion and textile industries. The environmental footprint left by fast fashion and significant textile waste is increasingly becoming a focal point for consumers and designers alike. Angus and Tom’s project is not just about creating bags; it’s about igniting a conversation about sustainability and innovation in design.

As global awareness around environmental issues continues to grow, initiatives like this serve as a beacon of hope. They urge both consumers and businesses to think critically and creatively about waste, eventually shifting the narrative toward a more sustainable future.

Looking Ahead

As the fashion industry faces increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact, initiatives like the one led by Angus Clifford and Tom Meades represent a necessary shift toward sustainability. Consumers are beginning to crave transparency and ethical production processes, creating a ripe opportunity for innovative designs that prioritize the planet.

Angus’s project is just the beginning. With aspirations to create his own brand and continue exploring collaborations that harness waste textiles, the journey ahead promises to be exciting. In this fast-evolving landscape, every step taken towards sustainability is a step toward a more conscientious future for both the industry and our planet.

Join the conversation! What do you think about initiatives like Angus and Tom’s? Can design truly change our perception of waste?

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