The clothing industry is among some of the most wasteful industries in the world, dumping nearly 13 million tons of textile waste globally each year according to researchers at The Pretty Planeteer.
Despite their waste, a number of clothing companies are making light of the current pandemic by putting their unused fabric to use. These businesses are upcycling their scraps and textiles, which would typically end up in landfills, into facemasks approved by Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Well known brands like Old Navy, Banana Republic and Athleta are just a few of the chains to hop on the mask making trend.
Old Navy is selling face masks for $12.50 per five pack. These coverings come in a variety of colors and patterns. Similarly, Athleta is selling colorful five packs as well, however at the price of $30. Banana Republic’s three packs sell for $29. They were such a hit that their first batch sold out within minutes of their launch, but are now back in stock.
Although this is progress, it’s only one small step in reducing the mountains of textile waste piling up in landfills around the world.
60% of garments contain polyester, a microplastic. This particular textile is unable to break down in landfills or the ocean. It also produces up to three times more carbon emissions when being manufactured. This is one of the many reasons the clothing industry produces more carbon emissions than international flights and maritime shipping combined.
Just as many businesses are decreasing their waste to produce masks, there are ways you can save your clothes and others from ending up in the landfill. Organizations like Plant Aid collect old textiles in order to ship them to thrift stores all over the world and/or recycle them into new goods.
Before throwing away clothes that aren’t for you anymore, remember that there might be a way to upcycle or donate them. Use your old clothes to make reusable shopping bags, cleaning rags or unique pillow covers. Donate your clothes to goodwill or sell them on a used clothing app. This effort to save unused garments from landfills reduces textile waste across the globe.
