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Reversing Direction in the Used Clothing Crisis: Global, European and Chilean Perspectives
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This report by UNECE and UNECLAC examines global trade flows of second-hand clothing with a focus on Europe and Chile, finding that 124,000 tonnes of used textiles entered Chile in 2022 alone, with large volumes ending up in the Atacama Desert and releasing microplastics and chemicals into the environment.
This joint report by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (UNECLAC), with support from the European Union, shows how extensive volumes of textile waste end up in the Atacama Desert, releasing microplastics and chemicals and transforming the landscape into a veritable open-air landfill. In 2022 alone, 124,000 tonnes of second-hand textiles entered Chile, according to Chilean National Customs Service data, many of which were eventually disposed of. This issue, however, is not isolated to Chile but indicative of a broader trend. This report offers an in-depth examination of the global trade flows of second-hand clothing, focusing on Europe and Chile. Through meticulous field and desk research, it elucidates the complex web of actors involved. It highlights the often-overlooked consequences of trade dynamics, consumer behaviours, and waste management strategies, uncovering some pressing challenges.
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From a disposable to a sustainable fashion industry: A review of the shameful trade flows of used textiles and the need to address fast fashion
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This review traces the fashion industry's shift from disposable fast fashion toward more sustainable production models, with a focus on the environmental toll of synthetic textile fibers. It identifies key strategies for reducing microfiber pollution and transitioning to circular material systems.
The global apparel industry is a significant yet overlooked source of plastic leakage
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This comprehensive assessment estimated that the global apparel industry generated 8.3 million tons of plastic pollution in 2019—representing 14% of estimated total global plastic pollution—with synthetic clothing as mismanaged waste being the dominant source rather than production-stage fiber emissions. The authors conclude that a fundamental transformation toward circular apparel economies and decreased synthetic clothing consumption is essential to address apparel-related plastic pollution.
Microfibre and nanofibre: pollution and environmental impacts
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This review examines microfibres and nanofibres — shed from clothing and textiles during use and washing — as a significant but poorly quantified category of environmental pollutants. Up to 4.28 million metric tonnes of microfibres enter the environment each year, with synthetic garment laundering responsible for about 35% of that total, yet natural fibre shedding is largely ignored in sustainability assessments. The authors argue that both synthetic and natural microfibres need to be included in environmental impact frameworks, especially as fast fashion drives ever-increasing textile production.
Recycling and valorization of textile waste
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This review examines the textile industry's contribution to environmental pollution, focusing on synthetic fiber waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and microplastic release driven by fast fashion and overconsumption. It surveys EU regulatory efforts and circular economy strategies aimed at improving textile recycling and reducing the environmental footprint of synthetic materials.
Environmental Impact of the Life Cycle of Textiles and Mitigation Options: Online Informative and Educational Resources / Impatto Ambientale Dei Prodotti Tessili Ed Opzioni Di Mitigazione: Risorse Informative Ed Educative Online
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This review examines the environmental impact of textile product life cycles and strategies for mitigation, noting that an estimated 35% of ocean microplastics originate from synthetic clothing fibers shed during washing. The study highlights that durable garments, low-shed textiles, natural fibers, and improved recycling infrastructure are among the key solutions for reducing textile-related microplastic pollution.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.