Stroud District Council is encouraging residents to take action on textile waste during Zero Waste Week (1–5 September) by making a simple pledge to reduce clothing and fabric waste.
Every year, thousands of tonnes of textiles end up in landfill – but there are easy ways to keep clothes in use and out of the bin. This week, we’re asking residents to commit to one zero waste action to help tackle textile waste. Here are seven simple ideas:
1. Repair instead of replace
Fixing a tear or replacing a button can give clothes a new lease of life.
2. Recycle unwanted clothes
Charity shops accept good quality clean clothes – but make sure you take them into the shop and avoid leaving them outside when the shops are closed. Clothes that are beyond repair can be taken to a textile bank or Gloucestershire County Council’s household recycling centres – you’ll need to book a slot in advance: Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) | Gloucestershire Recycles
3. Sell what you no longer wear
Platforms like eBay, Vinted, and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to pass on clothes you no longer need – and you might make a bit of money too.
4. Get creative with upcycling
Turn old clothes into cleaning cloths, tote bags, or even patchwork projects. Upcycling is a fun and sustainable way to give textiles a second life. There’s plenty of inspiration online or join the Transition Stroud Textiles Group which meets regularly to mend, swap and craft with textiles: transitionstroud.org/transition-stroud-action-groups/
5. Shop responsibly from the start
Cut textile waste before it begins by choosing second-hand clothing from charity shops or online platforms like eBay or Vinted, where you’ll often find excellent quality items. Avoid fast fashion and overseas imports where possible, and support local or ethical brands that priorities sustainability – also available second hand.
6. Take part in a clothes swap
Transition Stroud will be celebrating Sustainable Fashion Week by swapping clothes, selling preloved garments and hosting a `trashion’ show on Saturday 27 September: Rewear Revolution — Stroud Valleys Project
7. Donate to the Stroud Funding textile sustainable fashion project
Support the Transform Stroud’s Textile Waste crowdfunding initiative, which aims to reduce textile waste locally and promote sustainable fashion: www.spacehive.com/transform-stroud-s-textile-waste
Cllr Martin Pearcy, Chair of the Environment Committee, said:
“Textile waste is a growing issue, but it’s one we can all help tackle. Whether it’s repairing, recycling, or reusing, small changes really do add up. We’re proud to support Zero Waste Week and encourage everyone to make a pledge and take action.”
Taking part in Zero Waste Week supports the Council Plan action to encourage and support reduce, reuse and repair initiatives in the district.
Make your pledge today – choose one action and stick with it. Share your progress on social media using #ZeroWasteWeek and help spread the word.
For more tips and information, visit Home - Zero Waste Week
For regular social media updates from the council, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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