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About ReCoat

Powered by the McMaster Okanagan Office of Health and Well-Being, ReCoat was founded at McMaster University and is a leading advocate for sustainability.

 

We collect lightly used lab coats and goggles from graduating students and redistribute them to incoming students for free, promoting the circular economy.​

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Our Mission & Values

Our Mission

  • Improve economic equity by providing free lab resources;

  • Increase safety through sanitization of materials; and

  • Contribute to global reduction goals by minimizing textile waste.

 

Our Values

  • Reduce: Instead of contributing to the climate crisis by having students purchasing a new lab coat and goggles, ReCoat reduces textile waste by offering up-cycled lab materials at no cost.

  • Support: A university education does not need to break the bank! To improve economic equity, ReCoat provides all of its supplies completely FREE. This way, we alleviate financial stress from students and enable them to make effective purchases.

  • Empower: To meet global reduction targets, we all must work together. Empowering students to take part in small actions can have huge impacts. What sustainable practice can you implement? 

ReCoat began at McMaster University in 2022, founded by Isaac Begun.

Each year, graduating students would retire their barely-used lab coats — often relegating them to storage or sending them to landfill. At the same time, incoming students were purchasing brand-new lab coats they’d only wear a handful of times.

ReCoat was created to close this loop — by collecting and redistributing gently used lab coats, we keep them in circulation and out of the waste stream.

Meet the ReCoat Team

The team behind our multi-campus initiative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can receive a lab coat through ReCoat?
Anybody! We believe that everyone should have access to the supplies they need to succeed, regardless of their program, level of study, or background.

Are the lab coats cleaned before redistribution?
Yes. All lab coats go through a cleaning and quality-check process to ensure they are in good condition, sanitized, and ready for use.

What condition are the lab coats in?
We only accept coats that are lightly used and still suitable for general use. This includes no large stains, rips, or missing buttons.

How can I donate my lab coat?
You can drop off your lab coat at our designated donation bins on campus. Each campus has their own drop off locations so be sure to check out their instagram to find out more specifics!

When is the best time to donate?
We accept donations year-round, but especially encourage donations at the end of academic terms when students are graduating or finishing lab courses.

How can I request a lab coat?
You can fill out our online request form to let us know you are interested in a ReCoat. ReCoats are in limited supply so be sure to reach out as soon as you can!

Is there a cost to receive a lab coat?
No, all lab coats are distributed free of charge thanks to generous student donations and support from campus partners.

Do I have to return the ReCoat at the end of the year?
Students are encouraged to use their ReCoat lab coat for as long as they need. The only thing we ask is that they are returned once you are finished with them so other students can enjoy them as well!

Can I get involved in helping with ReCoat?
Yes! We’re always looking for volunteers to help with coat collection, cleaning coordination, distribution, or outreach. Contact us to join the team.

ReCoat on Campus

ReCoat McMaster
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8
Canada

© 2025 ReCoat on Campus

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