National retailer Woolworths is using over one million 500ml PET bottles to make clothing material as part of its sustainable fashion range for winter 2020.

While Woolworths has used recycled polyester in items such as denim jeans, the company says it has been hard at work repurposing the bottles into "recycled polyester". This will now form part of its puffer jackets and gilets, as well as some polar fleece items across men's, ladies' and kidswear.

Puffer jackets, highly sought after for their comfort and warmth both in and outdoors, appear to be the "it" fashion item for winter 2020. They are especially great for hiking trips, being both wind and water resistant, as well as light to carry.

The puffer jackets from Woolworths are made from approximately 80% recycled fabric, including the zip tape.

The recycled polyester is used mainly for the inner "wadding" of the puffer jackets. This gives consumers an alternative material to wearing goose down, which is also a popular inner wadding material. The puffer jacket's shell and lining are each made from 40% recycled nylon. 

The jackets retail from R999 and can be bought in earth tone colours like browns and greens, beige, and cream, as well as chartreuse and rust. 

Along with the jackets, Woolworths says it is also using recycled PET bottles in duvet fill, reusable shopping bags and packaging. The company says it is committed to sourcing sustainable fibres and including recycled materials in products and packaging.