Massachusetts has passed a law that outlaws throwing out textiles, garments, and other forms of clothing! This is a massive environmental victory, and especially in an age of fast fashion, it will help the state dramatically reduce waste. Other states' Environmental Protection Agencies should implement similar policies to encourage clothing recycling and help curb our waste crisis!
Sign now to demand all 49 other states' Environmental Protection Agencies follow in Massachusetts footsteps and mandate clothes recycling!
Waste is a massive problem – not just in the United States, but across the world. We are running out of space for landfills, and even the best-kept landfills tend to leak and pollute local communities. Landfills are now being built in places that infringe on local wildlife habitat, and massive piles of trash are themselves actually massive contributors to climate change. This is exactly why efforts to curb waste are so important, and other states must follow suit.
The best part of this new law is that it targets major contributors – like retailers – who are the most responsible for widespread waste of clothing. Police won't be knocking on individuals' doors who accidentally get rid of a pair of jeans. Instead, large businesses – which are the main contributors to the problem – who will be targeted to do their part to reduce textile waste. Meanwhile, individuals will be encouraged to recycle their clothes, too!
The new plan in Massachusetts is a vital step towards sustainability and a healthier planet. We must encourage all other 49 states to follow suit! State Environmental Protection Agencies across the country should ban the disposal of textiles! Sign now if you agree!