In the aftermath of devastating California wildfires, a surplus of donated clothing and textiles has overwhelmed relief efforts. Groups like Suay Sew Shop are working to salvage these materials, but the situation underscores the urgent need for a sustainable approach to textile consumption and waste management.
People sort through donated clothing and other items at a pop-up donation center for wildfire victims in Arcadia, California, on 11 January.People sort through donated clothing and other items at a pop-up donation center for wildfire victims in Arcadia, California, on 11 January.
Instead of letting the clothes go to a landfill, where they can cause a host of environmental problems, Suay has rescued 50,000lb of textiles so they can be cleaned, sorted and upcycled by professional designers and seamstresses/seamsters. Since LA currently has no permanent textile recycling or collection, it’s up to groups like Suay to save as many textiles as possible before they get dumped or exported.
Rather than donating more clothes for fire victims, experts say to consider selling wearable pieces on platforms such as Depop, Poshmark, ThredUp or eBay and give the proceeds to fire victims. Peer-to-peer reselling apps help ensure the item retains its value because a seller is more likely to clean the piece or make any needed repairs and give it the best chance possible to be resold.“You’re attaching value even if you’re selling a fast fashion item for $10,” said ASU FIDM’s Kosak.
Fashion Disaster Relief CLIMATE CHANGE CONSUMPTION TEXTILE WASTE WILDFIRE RELIEF SUSTAINABILITY
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Cairns Waste Plant Fire Disrupts Green Waste ProgramA massive fire at the Bedminster waste transfer station in Cairns has forced the diversion of hundreds of tonnes of organic waste to landfill, disrupting the city's green waste management efforts.
Read more »
Pound falls to 14-month low as bond sell-off piles pressure on Rachel ReevesUK borrowing costs rise again, with analyst warning ‘things are also getting rather ugly’
Read more »
Devastation: aerial views of Gaza after ceasefireMonths of Israeli bombardment have turned buildings into piles of rubble and ash
Read more »
Reclaim Your Tech: AI Tools, Recommendations, and E-WasteThis article explores how to navigate the increasingly AI-driven world, from managing recommendations to dealing with phone theft and responsible e-waste disposal.
Read more »
Ipswich Residents Finally Get Inquiry Into Health Impacts of Waste Facility SmellsAfter years of complaints, Ipswich residents are finally getting an inquiry into the health impacts of noxious smells from nearby waste facilities. The inquiry, promised by the Liberal National Party ahead of the 2024 state election, will be led by former chief health officer John Gerrard and will investigate the health issues reported by residents due to the foul odors emanating from the Swanbank landfill.
Read more »
Queensland to Investigate Health Impacts of Waste Industry OdorsResidents of Ipswich, Queensland have long complained about the impact of odors from waste facilities on their health. The Queensland government has finally announced a public inquiry to investigate these claims.
Read more »