One thing that is seen by every guest at a Disney park and perhaps also overlooked is the costumes that are worn by cast members. Around the globe, thousands of cast members don specially-designed costumes each day as they magic magic for guests. While these costumes might just seem like a part of the Disney experience, there is more to them than meets the eye. Great care is taken by Disney Live Entertainment costuming teams to make these the best they can be.

Part of the process in creating new costumes involves using sustainable materials. They also reevaluate costume production so as to make the least environmental impact. On top of that, Disney strives to work on environmental sustainability in other ways, like supporting local organizations, including theatre and school costume donations through donations. Disney shared how its parks and experiences segment works to take a fresh, Earth-friendly approach to costuming cast members. Take a look below!

Cast Costumes at Walt Disney World

We’re always looking for ways to improve the cast experience and our latest costume designs keep fit, function and comfort top of mind by using updated fabric technology that’s lightweight, moisture resistant and serves as a strong sun protectant. They’re also designed with the environment in mind: Currently, 20% of all materials used in Walt Disney World operational costumes are made with recycled components, and that number continues to grow.

This selection of carefully redesigned costumes includes dozens of locations and roles across Walt Disney World such as Coral Reef Restaurant, Jungle Cruise, Savanna Guides, Kilimanjaro Safaris, The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, and many more.

What about costumes no longer in use? Components of retired garments that are unable to be donated are evaluated for recycling including all clear rain gear, fabric scraps from the Costuming department, and sneakers worn by performers. Fun fact: The Cosmetology team at Walt Disney World has recycled over 1 million bobby pins to date!

Upcycled Merchandise at Tokyo Disney Resort

At Tokyo Disney Resort, guests can enjoy their favorite experiences in a unique way thanks to the resort’s Circulating Smiles initiative, which takes retired cast member costumes and turns them into merchandise through upcycling. Patch badges and tote bags were crafted using materials from Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters and Big Thunder Mountain costumes, while pouches were created from fabric previously used in costumes worn by cast members at the Pooh Corner shop in Tokyo Disneyland. These limited-edition items resonated strongly with guests, pairing sustainability with nostalgia.

Costume Recycling at Disneyland Paris

The Disneyland Paris entertainment team is committed to providing a second life for worn or retired cast member costumes through upcycling but instead of merchandise, we’re creating materials!

Utilizing recycling bins across the resort, Disneyland Paris collects costumes no longer suitable for everyday use, and after careful fraying, the costumes are transformed into felt insulation that is then sent to local organizations for future construction in the community. Nearly 15 tons of costumes were recycled in 2023 and 2024, which is equivalent to almost 33,000 pieces of costumes. 

Prioritizing planet-friendly costume design, garment upcycling and outfit recycling are just a number of ways Disney is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility at our parks and resorts. This story is part of our 30-day countdown to Earth Day celebrating the Disney Conservation Fund’s 30th anniversary — follow along at thewaltdisneycompany.com/disney-planet-possible.