The Center for Sustainable Materials Management (CSMM), a New York state-based resource management research institution, and Resource Recycling Systems (RRS), a materials management and circular economy consultancy, have joined forces to unveil a pioneering textile report. This report investigates textile waste management activities across the state, explores the barriers to post-consumer textile waste recovery, and identifies opportunities for developing solutions.
âKey to our Centerâs mission is redesigning how we manage materials in New York and collaborating with the complex, diverse groups that are responsible for its end of life,â said Kate Walker, CSMMâs executive director. âTextiles are the fastest growing category of waste in the U.S. and are a priority material for our Center. We are proud to launch this report with RRS, to provide a roadmap for action across the state to improve stewardship of textiles and promote sustainable textiles for current and future generations.â
The report highlights that while there are many existing options for diverting textile waste from landfill disposal in New York state, significant challenges remain. Participation and convenience-related factors, particularly the ease of access to diversion options, such as dedicated county and retail collection programs, are notable hurdles. Additionally, the study underscores the need for greater supply chain transparency and improved textile waste data.
RRS Senior Consultant Marisa Adler emphasized the importance of this research: âThis report is a first-of-its-kind jurisdictional profile of textile recovery practices and infrastructure. Findings are key to planning sector advancements to meet pressing sustainability needs now and into the future, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation, end market development, and programs and services to increase textile recovery. Iâm excited to see CSMM lean into solutions development and lead the way with a model that other states can adopt.â
The study also outlines opportunities for state-level formalization within the textile recovery industry, alongside the pursuit of best practices, governing standards, supportive regulations, and data harmonization. Increasing public education on textile recovery options is another critical component of New York state textile recovery, empowering consumers to make informed, environmentally conscious decisions.
âNew York state is an ideal canvas for sparking a reimagination of the textiles recovery system in the U.S.,â said Walker. “As the nationâs fashion capital, with a vibrant economy and large population, New Yorkâs relevance to a zero waste-driven textile recovery future is significant.â