California Leads the Way in Fashion Waste Recycling: A Game-Changer for the Industry!
California is taking a groundbreaking step in addressing the issue of textile and fashion waste with the passage of the Responsible Textile Recovery Act. Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed SB 707 into law, making it the first legislation in the country to require clothing companies to implement a recycling system for the garments they sell.
The new law mandates a clothing, apparel, and textile extended producer responsibility (EPR) program, which will require producers to administer and fund the repair, reuse, and recycling of their products statewide. This move is aimed at transforming the way we think about textile waste and reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
State Democratic Senator Josh Newman, who authored the bill, expressed his pride in seeing SB 707 signed into law, highlighting the positive impact it will have on California’s environment and communities. The bill received wide support from state legislators and environmental organizations, retailers like Ikea and Goodwill, and municipal waste managers.
Under the new law, fashion consumers in California will have the option to bring damaged and unwanted clothing and textiles to collection sites, including thrift stores and charities, to be sorted and recycled. Producers will have until 2026 to start a nonprofit organization to design strategies like mail-return programs and collection sites, with the program expected to be fully operational by 2028.
The textile industry in the U.S. generates almost 10 times the waste now than in 1960, with over 18.7 million tons produced in 2018, 85% of which ends up in landfills. This waste contributes to environmental pollution, leaching dyes and chemicals into groundwater and soil, and emitting methane into the atmosphere.
Chelsea Murtha, senior director of sustainability at the American Apparel and Footwear Association, emphasized the importance of collaboration with organizations like CalRecycle to ensure the successful implementation of the recycling program. Companies like H&M have already seen success with similar laws in France and the Netherlands, where textiles are collected for recycling and repairs are subsidized to encourage consumers to keep their clothing longer.
The passage of SB 707 in California sets an example for the rest of the country, highlighting the urgent need for a federal waste policy to streamline regulations and promote innovation in the fashion industry. By working together with organizations like ACT, fashion companies can navigate the transition to a circular economy and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Overall, SB 707 represents a significant step towards reducing textile waste and promoting environmental sustainability in the fashion industry. California’s leadership in this area is paving the way for a more responsible and environmentally conscious approach to clothing production and consumption.