Used clothing collection & textile recycling
Regional & sustainable
Increasing awareness of environmental protection and sustainability has made textile recycling and used clothing collection key issues in modern society, in which we at BTV Lohsa play a leading role.
In a world that is increasingly characterized by consumption and a throwaway culture, we are faced with the challenge of using our resources wisely and reducing our environmental impact.
One area that is becoming increasingly important in this context is the collection of used clothing and the subsequent textile recycling industry.
This process plays a crucial role in promoting a sustainable future and therefore deserves our full attention.
One of the biggest challenges in the field of used clothing collection and textile recycling is dealing with the enormous amount of clothing that is disposed of worldwide every year.
According to a study by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, more than 92 million tons of waste textiles are generated each year, of which only a fraction is recycled.
Tackling this problem requires innovative solutions and increased collaboration between all stakeholders, from governments and businesses to consumers and non-profit organizations.
What belongs in the clothing collection?
- Rule of thumb: Clean, dry and in good condition
- Not just for clothes, but also blankets, bed linen and towels
- Pay attention to reputable collections (contact details are included on the container)
Textile recycling in the cycle
Did you know what happens to your old things when they end up in our containers?
Collection point
We currently have over 700 containers in circulation.
These can be found in Saxony and southern Brandenburg.
Sorting the goods
The goods are sorted by hand.
Reuse
More than half of the clothing collected can be reused in second-hand stores.
Reutilization
Unusable clothing is processed into cleaning rags.
Alternatively, they are used to make insulation.
Take part!
Used clothing collection is more than just making space in our wardrobes or donating unwanted clothes to charity.
It's an important step towards reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of the fashion industry, which is one of the most resource-intensive industries in the world.
By collecting and processing used clothing, we can extend the life of textiles while reducing the need for new raw materials and the associated environmental impact.
Environmental protection
Putting your clothes in our used clothing container saves resources and reduces the environmental impact. We recycle your clothes and reduce the amount of raw materials needed to produce new garments.
Social responsibility
Your participation helps those in need. Our used clothing collections support charitable organizations and programs that help people in need by giving them access to clothing they may not be able to afford.
Create space
By putting clothes that you no longer wear in an old clothes container, you free up space in your closet or home. This can contribute to a tidier environment and help you get rid of unnecessary clutter.
Promoting recycling
Used clothing containers help to raise awareness of recycling. More than half of the clothing thrown in can be reused in second-hand stores. The rest can be recycled into insulation materials.
It is simple
Disposing of clothing in a used clothing container is a simple and convenient option. You don't have to worry about selling or disposing of your clothes and can instead donate them to a good cause quickly and easily.
From collection to reuse
Used clothing plays an important role in the circular economy and contributes to the sustainable use of resources.
From collection to reuse, they go through a complex process that includes both economic and ecological aspects.
In this article, we take a closer look at the journey of used clothing and the importance of recycling it.
The collection of old clothes
Used clothing is collected in a variety of ways.
Household collections, street and container collections as well as direct drop-offs at textile recyclers or charitable clothing stores are common methods.
Used clothing containers in particular are widespread and allow citizens to hand in their textiles conveniently and free of charge.
The sorting
After collection, the used textiles are sorted by hand in modern sorting facilities.
This process requires a great deal of experience and expertise, as the textiles have to be sorted by type, article and quality.
Sorting is carried out according to requirements from the recipient countries, fashion preferences and seasonal differences.
The reuse
A large proportion of the old clothes collected are reused.
Second-hand clothing is particularly popular in Eastern Europe, Asia and Africa.
Many people appreciate the quality and fashionable styles of second-hand clothing at low prices compared to imports from other regions.
The reuse of used clothing therefore not only helps to conserve resources, but also offers social and economic benefits.
The utilization
In addition to reuse, garments that are no longer fit for wear are recycled further.
They can be cut into cleaning cloths or recycled textile fibers can be obtained.
These materials are used in various industries such as car manufacturing, mechanical engineering and the printing industry.
Recycling ensures that even clothing that is no longer wearable still has a use and does not simply end up in household waste.