The Textile Recycling Association (TRA) has pled with the UK Government to support the textile recycling sector which is on the brink of collapse.  As unprecedented global market challenges begin forcing the sector into disarray, the TRA has announced concerning news – that as a direct result of the capacity restrictions at processing plants, many may soon be unable to collect from charity shops, recycling centres and community textile banks!

The textile industry has been heavily criticised for ‘fast fashion’ and for unsustainable use of natural resources – water, fossil fuels, energy etc – let alone ‘toxic’ manufacturing processes.  With an estimated £140 million worth of clothing sent to UK landfill annually, there is a clear requirement for the UK government to step-up to ensure circularity across the sector!  More shockingly, it has been reported that the global production of textile waste is 92 million tonnes – this is an equivalent to a truck load of textiles being discarded every minute.

It is without a doubt that the breakdown in textile recycling would have devastating effects on the environment – including water scarcity, water pollution and micro-fibre pollution.

There are a range of major factors contributing to the textile crisis, including changes to policy within the EU, increasing global transportation delays and costs, international taxation, and fast fashion.

But what can be done? The TRA has recommended the introduction of an Extended Producer Scheme to set minimum standards for clothing – referring directly to durability and recycled content used in garments, along with improvements to labelling and consumer information.

Leading waste management and recycling company, Wyndham Resources (UK) Ltd, is uniquely positioned to provide complete solutions for its clients.  The company can assist with the collection, transportation, and disposal of textile goods, or arrange a consultative service to arrange provision for the management and recycling of textile waste.

Wyndham Resources is your partner in recycling today, working together for a greener tomorrow.  For sustainable waste management solutions, contact Wyndham’s team – operations@wyndhamresources.co.uk

 

Ref:

https://wrap.org.uk/taking-action/textiles

https://www.letsrecycle.com/news/tra-warns-of-imminent-collapse-of-textile-recycling-industry/