Increasing Need for Textile and Clothing Recycling

M60STD

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 4.5%, or 4 million tons of all waste sent to municipal landfills is comprised of textiles. Access to inexpensive clothing and fabrics has lead to significant growth for the need to efficiently recycle excess inventory. Textile recycling continues to grow as this valuable asset has become a world commodity. In accordance with this, the increasing consumer appeal for products made with recycled content has increased its marketing potential and overall value.

The majority of textile and clothing waste is originated from household sources, and becomes known as post-consumer waste. The retail industry, garment-making process, and yarn and fabric manufacturers further contribute to the accumulation of textile waste. This type of waste is referred to as post-industrial waste. Together, these two types of waste provide a vast and increasing potential for recovery and recycling. [Read more...]