In 2005, Patagonia launched the world’s first garment recycling initiative. Common Threads Garment Recycling Program is a system through which customers may return worn out clothing in exchange for discounts on Patagonia products.

The worn out garments are run through an innovative recycling process in which they are repurposed into polyester, which can be used for second-generation performance wear.

The program creates a full-loop of environmental responsibility. Rather than simply selling products produced from recycled materials, Patagonia creates an infinite cycle of reuse by reabsorbing materials back into its supply chain. This cuts back on virgin oil wasted, natural resources squandered and the discarding of clothing in the landfill or incinerator.

The Women’s Capilene 1 Scoop is a popular product made from 100% post-consumer recycled Capilene through Patagonia’s Common Threads Recycling Program. According to research sponsored by Patagonia, “the environmental impact of recycling worn-out Capilene base layers into new polyester fiber is significantly lower than making that same fiber from virgin materials. Taking into account that worn-out garments are diverted from trash incinerators, making new polyester fiber from recycled garments results in an energy savings of 76% and a CO2 emissions [greenhouse gasses] reduction of 71%, versus creating that fiber from new raw material.”

Posted on April 16th, 2008 by Olivia Zaleski