The average American produces 35 pounds of textile waste annually and nearly two-thirds of recyclable textiles still find their way to the landfill.
Green City Recycler is a local textile recycling company working hard to divert used clothing, shoes, and other household items from landfills. Through their efforts, they hope to reduce the millions of pounds of textile waste finding its way to the local landfill.
“Almost 95% of post-consumer textiles are recyclable but only a very small percentage of it actually gets recycled,” says Sam Ebenezer, CEO of Operations at Green City Recycler. “We see a future where 95% is collected and recycled. This can be achieved by creating awareness.”
Nearly 100% of textiles and clothes can be recycled or repurposed. Even if the item is stained or damaged, Green City Recycler will accept it and stop it from reaching the landfill.
Green City Recycler’s program has helped communities achieve their environmental goals, by partnering with schools, businesses and non-profits who host clothing recycling pods and help raise funds and awareness to support their mission.
Creating Awareness
Striving to create awareness in the community on the importance of textile recycling, Green City Recycler is currently partnering with more than 40 public schools with a goal of partnering with 60-75 by the end of the year– as well as increasing the number of businesses who host a Green City Recycler pick up pod. “Our pods are well maintained, and are serviced at least twice a week,” Sam says. “By partnering with us, your business or school will also be featured in our advertising too.” The 4x4x6 foot Green City Recycler donation pod takes up less than the equivalent of one parking space. "Our pods will proudly showcase your business or school’s identity. Wrapped in your distinctive colors and adorned with your logo," Sam says. "The eye-catching pods will not only serve a practical purpose but also enhance your business or your school’s visibility."
For schools who partner with the Green City Recycler:
Fundraising Opportunity: For every pound of textiles collected in the recycling bin, the school receives a payment of 10 cents.
Promotion of Sustainability: By participating in textile recycling, students and the community learn about the importance of sustainability and the positive impact of recycling.
Community Involvement: This initiative encourages the involvement of the school community; students, parents, and staff in a meaningful environmental project that can benefit our school and beyond.
How it Works
All the items from their recycling collection pods go to the pre-sort center first. From there, the items are sorted into different categories like textiles, books, toys, household items, shoes, etc. The textiles are then further categorized into four grades based on their usability. Grades A & B: The clothes are in good, re-useable condition and are sold to markets that are in need of good quality used clothing. Grades C & D: The clothes in these categories are not in good condition. They may have holes, rips, or other damage. These are cut into rags and sold to industries who use recycled clothing as raw materials in the production of new products. Jeans can be shredded and made into insulation. Some businesses even donate old, used uniforms to be safely repurposed via Green City Recycler.
Additionally, Green City Recycler provides approximately one million Texas residents with weekly recycling services through their convenient pick-up service, available by request. The collected textiles can include clothing, shoes, and linens, and they will be repurposed, reused, or recycled, reducing waste and our environmental footprint.
Join Green City Recycler in the fight to reduce textile waste.
Nearly 100% of textiles and clothes can be recycled or repurposed. Even if the item is stained or damaged, they will accept it and stop it from reaching the landfill.