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Textile Recycling

ASCP News

Written by Jennifer Hernandez

January 13, 2025


Denver offers several options for responsibly recycling textiles, with a growing awareness of how discarded clothing contributes to environmental issues. The textile waste produced annually in the U.S. is substantial; Americans discard over 15 million metric tons of textiles each year, with only 15% of that being recycled or donated (Textiles: Material-Specific Data). This equates to approximately 104 pounds per person per year, most of which ends up in landfills or incinerated, releasing harmful emissions and wasting valuable resources. For the textiles that are recycled, pathways include reuse through donations, repurposing into materials like industrial wiping cloths, or converting fibers into new products like insulation. However, because most donations exceed resale needs domestically, around 80% of donated clothing is exported overseas, where it’s either sold or repurposed, mainly in countries across Africa, Asia, and Central America (Schumacher & Forster, 2022).

 

In Denver, textile recycling efforts are available through the city’s programs and private organizations. Denver Solid Waste Management operates specific days for textile collection and partners with nonprofit and private organizations to provide additional recycling support. Western Disposal, for example, allows for textile drop-offs at its recycling center and collaborates with textile recyclers to repurpose worn or damaged items into new products (Textile Recycling: Unlock Your Closet’s potential). Textile Recycling Quotes, another Denver-based option, offers accessible drop-off locations for individuals and businesses, supporting local sustainability initiatives and helping decrease landfill reliance (Stefano, 2023). Residents should check the condition of items before recycling, as materials that are torn or stained are still useful for recycling, whereas heavily blended or synthetic fabrics may require specialized processing.

 

The environmental benefits of textile recycling are significant. Reusing just one ton of textiles saves up to 1,000 gallons of water and reduces greenhouse gas emissions that would otherwise be emitted through incineration or decay in landfills. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has estimated that 11.3 million tons of textile waste were sent to landfills in 2018 alone (Textiles: Material-Specific Data). Increasing textile recycling rates, especially through local drop-off points, education on proper recycling practices, and circular economy initiatives, could help reduce waste and create new economic opportunities in Denver and beyond.

 

For further details on where to recycle textiles in Denver and how the recycling process works, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and EPA provide guidelines on best practices for keeping textiles out of the waste stream and encourage partnerships that support a more circular textile economy​

 

Denver offers several options for residents interested in recycling textiles to reduce landfill waste and support sustainability efforts:

 

1. City Programs: Denver Recycles, part of the Denver city government, occasionally hosts events for textile recycling. Residents are encouraged to check Denver's recycling schedule or subscribe to alerts for updates.

 

2. Western Disposal: Based in Boulder but serving nearby areas, Western Disposal accepts clothing and textiles to reduce landfill waste. They partner with local thrift stores to recycle items in good condition and sustainably dispose of others.

 

3. Textile Recycling Quotes: This private company provides textile recycling for various materials, such as clothing, linens, and other fabrics. They aim to keep textiles out of landfills and support the circular economy.

 

Each option has unique collection processes and accepted items, so checking specific guidelines is recommended. Local nonprofits may also accept used clothing, so donating before recycling can be a beneficial first step.


Sources:


Environmental Protection Agency. Textiles: Material-Specific Data. EPA. https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/textiles-material-specific-data


Schumacher, K. and Forster, A. (2022), Facilitating a Circular Economy for Textiles Workshop Report, Special Publication (NIST SP), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.1500-207, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=934344 (Accessed January 12, 2025)


Stefano. (2023, August 30). Denver Textile Recycling. Textile Recycling Quotes. https://textilerecyclingquotes.com/denver-textile-recycling/


Textile Recycling: Unlock Your Closet’s potential. Western Disposal. (2024, June 25). https://www.westerndisposal.com/textile-recycling-2/


 

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