The EPA recommends that consumers refuse, reduce, reuse, and recycle. *

“What do these terms mean?

Refuse is the practice of saying no to adding items to your cart or closet and abstaining from consumerism when possible. To ‘refuse’, you could establish a buy-nothing practice and see how long you can keep it up or pause when the urge to buy a new piece strikes you and consider whether you already have a good option or could borrow from a friend or family member.

To reduce is to think of the item’s versatility and functionality in your lifestyle and only buy the minimum needed. You can also avoid washing clothes after each use, which will lengthen clothing items’ lifespans. Simple repairs can also yield a longer lifespan to clothing.

To reuse is to contribute to and use the U.S.’s fantastic, thriving secondhand market online or visit brick-and-mortar consignment shops and thrift stores. Find ways to upcycle (making something new or more useful out of something you would otherwise toss in the trash) by making quilts or gift-wrapping using fabric scraps.

Recycle is the last of the four R options because at this time, like plastics, there is no guarantee your clothing will actually be recycled. Nevertheless, it’s still worth it to seek out innovative private companies who recycle fabric, or find public programs, such as animal shelters, who might have uses for old clothing or fabric scraps”. In Medfield, look for white “M” boxes located at every public school, Hinkley Park and the Transfer Station for Baystate textile recycling.

 * https://www.epa.gov/perspectives/fashion-forward-fabric-recycling-and-reuse-spring