Textile Recycling

Negative environmental impacts include:

- energy consumption and greenhouse gas production from the washing, drying and pressing of clothes

- resource depletion and emission production as a result of processing fossil fuels into synthetic fibres

- significant water use, fertiliser, pesticide and herbicide use in the production of cotton

- hazardous waste from products used during the dyeing process

- carbon emissions as a result of the transportation of large quantities of fabric and clothing worldwide

There are also a number of social and ethical impacts:

- poor working conditions, predominantly in developing countries, for those producing fabric and clothing

- limiting trade agreements and resource loss in countries producing the raw materials

- animal welfare

Textile waste is currently the fastest growing stream in household waste and is forecast to continue increasing as sales of new clothing continue to rise. The UK generated almost 2 million tonnes of clothing waste in 2006; of this, 63% (1.2 million tonnes) entered the household waste stream going to landfill. At least 50% of this could have been recycled.

The benefits of textile reuse and recovery include:

- reduced need for landfill space; textiles present particular problems in landfill as synthetic products do not decompose, while woollen garments do decompose and produce methane, contributing to global warming

- reduced pressure on virgin resources

- reduced pollution and energy savings

So how can we recycle textiles?
Although government legislation is working towards improved waste, pollution and resource management within textile production, there are many things we can do in our homes to prevent textile waste. The quantity and quality of fabric you have determines what you can do with it next.

Small pieces of fabric, including ribbons and zips, can be used in crafting. Card-making, patch-working and rag-rugging are creative ways of turning old scraps into pretty and ethical homeware and gifts. There are many crafty websites providing guides and ideas should you be stuck!
Garments that you love but just don't fit any more can be altered again, there are many 'how to' guides available online, and simple alterations can add a new lease of life to an old favourite.

Source : articlesnatch.com