According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of sustainable is:
1: capable of being sustained (or maintained at length without interruption or weakening)
2. a: of, relating to, or being a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged
b: of or relating to a lifestyle involving the use of sustainable methods
We can all do our part to be sustainable. We can look for food and beverages that have been sustainably farmed. We can limit our use of disposable plastics and paper products. Another very interesting way we can do our part, and one that is gaining traction, is through our wardrobes.
There is a massive amount of waste in the clothing industry. Every time we buy a brand new piece of clothing, we are adding to the waste in our environment. Here are some tips for how to make your closet more sustainable:
- Rework old clothing. An old T-shirt can easily become a new undershirt. An old blouse can be tied at the waist for a completely new look.
- Repair it before you give up on it! Bag up all the clothes that need a little TLC and drop them at your local tailor/seamstress.
- Donate old items, don’t toss them. Old clothes that are in good condition, but can’t be reworked or repaired, can easily be donated. I like using Green Drop. They come to your door and you can choose from one of four charities to support.
- Recycle old clothing items that are not even donation-worthy. They no longer need to be thrown out! New Jersey has textile recycling opportunities through Re-Purpose New Jersey.
- Shop second-hand and eco-consciously. More and more reputable second-hand stores are cropping up. My favorite in the area is Greene Street. If you don’t like second-hand clothes, look for sustainable brands, such as Alternative Apparel.
If you would like to read more about how to become more sustainable with your wardrobe, feel free to visit THIRD LAW.