Neumühle and Vettel teach Zurich schoolkids about circular economy

(CONNECT) Andreas Fehr, co-founder of the sustainable Zurich-based fashion brand Neumühle Switzerland, and the former Formula 1 driver Sebastian Vettel have jointly held a circular economy day at a secondary school in Zurich. Vettel also posted a short video about this Neumühle School Day on Instagram.

Fehr and Vettel have been friends for a long time and they both care deeply about the issues of sustainability and the circular economy: “We are convinced that what we experience ourselves is easier to absorb and understand”, as Neumühle writes in a brief report covering its School Day. “If we understand topics such as the circular economy and sustainable consumption at an early stage, we can make more informed decisions for the future”.

The session, which was divided into four lessons, covered the linear economy and circularity, Cradle to Cradle, mono-materials and recycling. Exhibits from the textile industry were scattered throughout the room to ensure that the students could tangibly relate to what was being said. Finally, the students had the chance to explore a range of materials to decide how clothing could be made more sustainable.

In tribute to Vettel’s hero, the legendary Brazilian racing driver Ayrton Senna, the two friends last year jointly launched a special collection consisting of α shirt and α balaclava to tie in with the 30th anniversary of Senna’s death. As the company stated at the time, the collaboration “unites their commitment and values for positive change towards a circular economy”. Teachers interested in arranging a Neumühle day at their school are invited to contact the textile company directly. ce/mm