Not Just Trash: Old Underwear Finds New Purpose: Underwear for Humanity

 

Underwear for Humanity has pioneered underwear recycling in Australia, offering a unique solution to reduce waste. They accept old underwear from any brand and any fabric, inviting everyone to participate in creating a sustainable future.

By supporting this initiative, individuals contribute to reducing the environmental impact of textile waste, ensuring that even delicate items like underwear are given a second life.

Underwear Recycling

Underwear is worn daily, making it delicate and subject to a short lifespan, with a high turnover rate. As a result, many people frequently need replacements.

However, in Australia, there are no options for donating old underwear, leaving the only option as landfill. Each year, Australia imports over 204 million pieces of underwear, resulting in a significant amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

The Problem

  • No formal donation programs for underwear in Australia

  • Most discarded underwear ends up in landfill

  • Over 204 million pieces imported annually

The Solution
Underwear for Humanity accepts all types of underwear, including:

  • Worn-out briefs

  • G-strings

  • Old bras (any condition)

Their approach:

  • Wearable items are donated to people in need

  • Damaged or worn-out pieces are responsibly recycled

The recycling process includes:

  • Sorting

  • Sanitising

  • Shredding

  • Repurposing into insulation

This method diverts textiles from landfill and gives them a new, useful purpose—supporting a more sustainable future.

Measuring the Impact

Underwear for Humanity has made a remarkable difference through their recycling program.

  • Over 20,080 items recycled (and counting)

  • Each item recycled = one less piece in landfill

  • Promotes a circular, sustainable fashion system

The recycling service is currently available to customers only, with the recycling fee built into the product price. This funding supports their social and environmental initiatives.

As a small social enterprise, they plan to expand the program to allow broader participation as they grow.

How Can You Participate?

  • Underwear is made from Tencel and organic cotton

  • Bras are made from nylon industrial waste

  • Recycling helps reduce textile waste and supports social impact projects

By supporting Underwear for Humanity, you're:

  • Contributing to a more sustainable future

  • Helping fund vital environmental and social projects

  • Reducing landfill waste, one pair at a time

Every pair recycled makes a difference—join the movement and be part of the change.

 
 
Jahzel Christi LamigComment