Somerville recycles textiles

Starting this summer, Somerville residents will be able to recycle textiles (aka cloth) — either curbside, or in dedicated bins. All clothing, shoes, and accessories will be picked up on the curb on your regular trash day. You can also use the bins located throughout the city of Somerville at any time.

What can you put in the bags and bins?

More than you might think. Yes, all kinds of clothing and shoes are accepted; but so are hats, jewelry, drapes, purses, blankets, and pillows. Click here for the full list of accepted items.

What happens to the textiles?

• About 40% of all items will be resold at stores in the US and abroad.

• 30% end up as rags.

• 30% is recycled into carpet padding, insulation, or raw material for automotive uses.

• Click here for the City of Somerville’s information page to learn more.

Why should you participate in textile recycling?

This is a no-cost program for Somerville residents. In fact, the company hired by the city of Somerville, Simple Recycling, will pay the City $20 for each ton of textiles they collect. And think of the reduction in trash going to the landfill. Before textile recycling began, 85% of all old clothes ended up there. This initiative will free up landfill space and will benefit individual people and various industries, and will even put a few dollars back in the pockets of Somerville’s bank account. What’s not to love?

So, Somerville, when you get your pink bags, do your community a favor and fill them up!

#green #somerville #realestate #lifestyle #recyclng #textiles #homeowners