Tekstiilijäätmeid

Tekstiilijäätmeid, also known as textile waste, refers to discarded or unwanted fabrics, clothing, and other textile products. These materials can originate from various sources, including household discards, manufacturing scraps, and end-of-life garments. The growing volume of textile waste presents a significant environmental challenge due to the resources involved in textile production and the difficulties associated with disposal.

The composition of textile waste is diverse, often containing natural fibers like cotton and wool, as well as synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon. Blended fabrics, which combine different fiber types, add complexity to recycling processes. Landfilling is a common method of disposal, but it contributes to land use and can release harmful substances into the environment as textiles decompose over long periods.

Efforts to manage textile waste focus on several key strategies. Reduction at the source involves promoting conscious consumption and extending the lifespan of clothing through repair and reuse. Collection and sorting systems are crucial for separating different types of textiles, which then facilitates appropriate treatment. Recycling processes can transform old textiles into new fibers for clothing or other products, or they can be used for insulation or cleaning rags. Incineration with energy recovery is another option, though it is generally considered less preferable than recycling. Awareness campaigns and policy initiatives aim to encourage greater responsibility throughout the textile lifecycle.