The Life Cycle of a Garment - Information and Links

I thought I would provide links to great information I've come across regarding what happens to garments after you no longer need or want them.

Recycling clothing used to be a regular occurrence; though as more resources and options to cut costs on materials and manufacturing became available - the more possible it was for the public to purchase items brand new. Thus leaving fewer garments manufactured with sustainable fabrics and therefore impossible to recycle.

"There are many concerns about the life cycle of synthetics which come primarily from petrochemicals. Unlike natural fibers, their source is not renewable (in less than millions of years) and they are not biodegradable." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clothing)

These garments that are donated or sold to consignment inevitably make it up the chain to disposal.


Take a look at this fantastic article from the UK about what happens after a garments been donated, sold or disposed of. http://www.oakdenehollins.co.uk/pdf/Clothing-after-wear.pdf

Here's a case study that illustrates the application of CP principles in the life cycle of cotton garment production by Novotex, a textile company founded in 1983. http://www.p2pays.org/ref/10/09354.htm