‘What goes where’? Characterizing Edmonton’s municipal clothing waste stream and consumer clothing disposal

Abstract

Increasing clothing waste has prompted the need for alternative disposal methods to landfilling. While previous studies have examined consumer attitudes toward clothing consumption and use, research on clothing disposal options and behaviours in Canada is limited. A greater understanding of consumer clothing disposal practices and the context in which these practices take place is needed to better connect clothing waste streams and opportunities to reduce clothing sent to landfill. Edmonton provides a unique Canadian contextual opportunity to examine behaviour related to clothing disposal given its advanced set of systems available to reduce clothing sent to landfill. After describing the context, this paper focuses on an online survey of 318 residents in Edmonton, Alberta to explore the motivations and behaviour related to clothing disposal. Results of the study provide insights into the dynamics between textile waste and the systems that support re-use and recycling of textile waste in Edmonton and explore alternatives that could be implemented to reduce textile waste. Findings demonstrate opportunities for Edmonton’s waste management to extend the life of clothing or generate value-added products from unwanted clothing via existing infrastructure as well as consumer willingness to take part in sustainable clothing disposal practices.