The textile sector accounts for between 2 and 8% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Producing one kilogram of textiles also uses over half a kilogram of chemicals, and consumes huge quantities of fresh water.
Globally, $460 billion of value is lost each year by discarding clothes that could still be worn.
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is implementing a three-year project funded by the European Union (EU) to develop innovative business practices and economic models in the textile value chain to help reduce environmental impact and improve livelihoods.
Africa Collects Textiles is one of the first Kenyan start-ups to participate in the InTex project, to develop their business model, determine their product environmental footprint and implement life-cycle thinking to up-cycle textile waste into quality rugs, carpets and toys.
Africa Collect Textiles (ACT) is a social enterprise in the business of used textiles collection and recycling.
ACT rolls out a new model for; collecting and redistributing used clothing in order to provide underprivileged communities with decent outfits; building the foundation for a circular textile and fashion industry, by preparing large quantities of sorted materials, suitable for repurposing and recycling; designing and developing products from textile waste
By collecting used textiles clean and dry, carefully sorting them, and determining and designing the best possible application for each and every item, ACT reduces pollution caused by dumping and burning, creates jobs, provides fitting outfits to vulnerable groups, and lots more.
Currently, ACT has 25 convenient drop-off points for used textiles in the city of Nairobi.
The goal for 2021 is to grow to 50 drop-off points. ACT offers a pick-up service for bulky items (such as mattresses and curtains) and accepts corporate workwear and uniforms.
After collecting and sorting, wearable items are re-distributed, denim is recycled into shoes, patchworks, facemasks, and carpets. Wool and acrylic are recycled into blankets and park ranger uniforms into school bags.
ACT’s goal is to save more and more used textiles from landfills or from being burned in the open air.
Simultaneously we are developing our sorting and recycling processes. Through collaborations with local designers, producers, and artisans we push the textile/fashion industry towards circularity.
