soda-pop bottles is being sold by local leisure wear store Sail On.

Owner Mr. Hugh Watlington said demand for the garment is so high in North America, Sail On could only obtain 12 of them on its first order from manufacturer Patagonia.

Mr. Watlington, Patagonia's sole representative in Bermuda, said he favoured the company for its innovative approach and its environmental consciousness.

The PCR Synchilla fleece contains 80 percent "post-consumer recycled polyester fibre'' and 20 percent virgin polyester.

Patagonia claims that, while the recycled plastic has previously been used as a component of carpets and sleeping bag insulation, this is the first time the technology has been applied to clothing.

"It's a fantastic lightweight jacket, which is ideal for a Bermuda winter or for a North American trip this season,'' said Mr. Watlington. "Sail On has long been an environmentally aware company. We were the first to offer a two-percent discount to customers who bring their own bags,' he said.

The garment sells for $105.

RECYCLED JACKET -- Sail On store owner Mr. Hugh Watlington models a new environmentally sound fleece jacket stuffed mainly with recycled soda-pop bottles.