One subject that his been a topic of ongoing conversation within the clothing scene is the impact that thrown out clothes can have on the environment. It is estimated that the amount of clothing that Americans throw out each year has doubled in volume within the past two decades– from 7 million to a whopping 14 million tons. While there are many reasons this may be the case, one commonly cited catalyst is the rise of fast fashion. These clothes commonly are cheap, but do not last long and are often tossed by companies and individuals alike when they are no longer trendy.
Margie Crumpton, video producer, designer, and fashion blogger realizes that a lot of people interested in fashion are looking for ways to get rid of old looks without contributing to the growing volume of clothing in our landfills. Here, she explores the topic of waste within the fashion industry as well as a few ways that we can ensure our old clothes can find use elsewhere.
Why Are So Many Clothes Thrown Away Annually?
Experts estimate that as much as 92 million tons of textile waste is created each year by leaders within the fashion industry. The outlook for the future of textile waste is equally bleak, with researchers predicting that textile waste will likely increase by up to 60% between 2015 and 2030.
Margie Crumpton recognizes that there are a variety of reasons why clothing waste is on the rise in the US. One of the biggest is that is that clothing companies simply produce too much textiles year over year.
These companies rush to produce products that are on trend as quickly as possible so that consumers can purchase them just as fast while they are still on trend. What isn’t sold is eventually burned or tossed, contributing to our carbon footprint and environmental issues such as global warming. What is sold is often only worn only between seven to ten times before being tossed by the customer.
Naturally, fashion giants are not the only contributors to textile waste across the country. Consumers have been guilty of overconsumption of clothing each year. On top of this, many people tend to take the easy route with getting rid of their clothing when they no longer want to keep it around. This means that Americans are throwing out clothing at higher rates than ever before.
What Can We Do to Reduce Textile Waste?
Margie Crumpton realizes that the issue of clothing waste is a pressing one within the fashion industry, however, she notes that there are a variety of ways that we can work to reduce our waste production from a personal standpoint. Not only does evaluating our relationship with clothing have an environmental impact, but it is also great for ensuring that our clothes get to others who may appreciate them.
Clothes Donation
Clothes donation is one of the most popular ways to get rid of old looks and make sure that they fall into the hands of the people who will appreciate them most. Locations such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill are always accepting clothes and can ensure that they find good homes
In some cases, an individual may not be near an organization that handles clothes donation. Margie speaks to how people can get creative by seeking out groups that may need usable clothing but lack a formal process for donation. For example, professional development orgs and certain nonprofits commonly need clothing such as business casual dress that can be pricey for people who are working to get their careers on track. If your clothes are in good condition and you do not wish to sell them, it is possible that these organizations within your community can put the clothes to good use.
Reselling
Giving away clothes is great, but there are times where it may not be preferable. For example, if you spent a lot of money on a certain fit but do not feel as though it suits you anymore, it is not wrong to pursue ways to get back a little money for future looks. Reselling clothing items is growing in popularity as a means to get your old looks.
Currently, there are a variety of ways that individuals can join the resell market and make a bit of money for future shopping. Several stores such as Buffalo Exchange will take a look at your clothing and offer you either money or store credit for your old textiles. There are also several reselling apps available where you can showcase clothes you don’t want and potentially sell them to others.
Reselling clothes can be an excellent way to keep usable textiles from ending up in the trash, ensuring that your old fashion inspirations live on.
Repurposing or Repairing
Repairing or repurposing old clothing can go a long way for keeping them as staples within your wardrobe. While our first instinct when we encounter a tear, rip, or ill-fitting piece of clothing is to toss it, many repairs are quite simple and can be done at home. According to Margie Crumpton, video platforms such as YouTube can be excellent for helping visual learners hone skills in repairing holes, tears, and busted stitching.
Repurposing clothing can be just as easy. Perhaps something doesn’t fit your style for going out anymore but can find a new life as a piece of loungewear instead. Repurposing clothes is cost effective as well as eco-friendly, and it is possible that there are various ways to get continued use out of your textiles.
For example, Margie Crumpton realizes that videos produced at home are a great way to get some use out of her old looks. Reason being certain parts that you do not like are likely to be out of frame anyhow.
Composting
It is a little known fact that some clothing items can be composted, which is good news for avid gardeners and plant lovers. Fabric that consists of 100% natural fibers such as silk, linen, cotton, and wool can be broken down through the composting process and provide essential nutrients to soil.
Composting is growing in popularity in part because it is an eco-friendly way to dispose of biodegradable items. One caveat Margie Crumpton offers to people new to composting is to be sure that the clothes were not blended with any synthetics. Check the tags before you start and get rid of anything that won’t compost such as buttons, zippers, and tags on the back and inside the clothing.
Get Creative with Your Approach to Old Clothes!
A lot of textile waste may be due to the practices of clothing giants, however, that does not mean we cannot reevaluate our approach to old clothing to make a difference.
Margie Crumpton maintains that the best way to address old clothing you may wish to discard is to get creative with your approach. Consider tossing them in the trash as your final option rather than the first, and never discount how much someone may value your old looks. This perspective is essential to reducing our carbon footprints and making a true difference in the fashion world.
