Textile Reuse

According to the Environmental Protection Agency website, 12.4 million tons of textiles were generated in 2008. That equals 5% of all solid waste in the U.S. The recycling industry recycled 2.5 billion pounds of textile waste (10 pounds per person), and 61% of clothes recycled for second hand use are exported to foregin countries.

If you’re the kind of person who has to try to buy, then consider second hand stores. The mixed bag of Spring 2010 style (rocker chic, boho, leather, lace, dresses and prints) make this the season for vintage stores, and vintage denim is comfy and cool. Manhattan stores can get pricey, so consider a trip to the BK to pick up low-priced duds whilst lowering your carbon impact on the world. Last week at Buffalo Exchange – Williamsburg, I scored a mint condition vintage pair of Diane von Furstenberg gold flats and an antique turquoise necklace. Beware that the items you are buying are indeed reused as they tend to slip some mass produced newbies in there (especially jewelry).

If you just can’t handle worn clothing, consider denim from R.E.U.S.E. (Recycle. Environment. U. Save. Earth.) R.E.U.S.E. denim wanted to lessen consumer’s carbon footprint by offering spring’s styles in recycled denim. With clever names like reBORN and reNEWED, R.E.U.S.E. denim is made from 80% post-consumer recycled denim, 18.5% new cotton and 1.5% spandex. The result is a wearable, comfortable denim short, skirt, or jean – skinny, straight leg and destructed – that no one else has worn before. R.E.U.S.E. denim can be purchased on their website. And for events and celebrity sighting, check out their fun blog.

It’s Earth Day. Save It.

Emma Dinzebach

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Posted by Emma Dinzebach at 12:00 AM
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