How many times have you donated your old clothes with the intention that someone else would put it to use? What if we told you that according to the EPA, only 16 percent of donated clothes is used, and 84 percent ends up in landfill and incinerators. 7 million tons of textile waste end up in landfills. While you may think you are contributing to helping others, unfortunately that is not always the case. We are constantly going through a cycle of purchasing clothes and either tossing or donating them once it does not fit us or our style.
There are many solutions to put old clothes to use instead of contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, and the landfill build up.
Textile production uses many resources, such as water. 2,700 liters of water are used to make a cotton shirt, and at least 200 years or more to decompose this shirt. Now imagine how much water, years and other materials it would take for millions of clothing items that are in landfills, and those that will be donated in the future. Ideally we should be opening our eyes to the issues to help stop the greenhouse gas emissions, fast fashion, and help do our part to eliminate waste.
Now, what would be the best solution for this?
Buy from the places you are donating too! This is the best, most direct method for eliminating donated clothing from ending up in landfill or being shipped overseas. Think about it, how do you prevent textiles from going to waste? Keep them in use! Supporting the secondhand stores and circular apparel brands who are managing the donated clothing supply is the most direct and impactful way to solve this problem.
Repair and upcycle your clothes to keep them in use and in their best condition. We donate clothes because we're not wearing them anymore, but why aren't you wearing them? Are the clothes damaged or stained? Does it not fit anymore? Do you not like or need that style anymore? What if, instead of donating old clothes, you repair, rework and relove them again? Repairing and reusing your clothing is also the best way to slow or even stop the problem of rampant overproduction and exploitation by the fast fashion industry that is ravaging our planet and our communities.
Research where you are donating. The Salvation Army recycles clothing it does not sell! Some retailers offer services to return unwanted clothes and recycle them instead of ending up in landfill.
If you have clothing that no longer fits your style, consider Circular Fashion LA! We redesign to put to use your old clothing ! Turn your old dress into a two piece. Turn a long skirt into pants! The possibilities are endless and helps reduce the amount of clothes in landfill by giving the pieces in your closet a second chance and creating something for you !
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