Bega Valley Shire Council is inviting the community to take part in a free textile recycling event at the Merimbula Waste and Recycling Centre on Saturday 15 November from 8am to 4pm.
Residents will be able to drop off unwanted textiles such as clothing, shoes, linen, blankets and towels for free, helping divert valuable materials from landfill and giving them a second life through recycling.
Council's Waste Education Officer, Rebecca Bruce said the event provides a practical way for residents to reduce waste and support more sustainable resource use.
"This event is about giving our community an easy way to recycle unwanted textiles responsibly," Ms Bruce said.
"Australians throw away thousands of tonnes of clothing and fabric every year, much of which can be reused or repurposed instead of ending up in landfill.
"By keeping these items out of the bin, we're preserving landfill space, saving natural resources like water and oil, and reducing the need for new materials to be produced.
"It's also a great opportunity to raise awareness about textile waste. If this trial event is successful, it could help shape future textile recycling programs across the region."
Ms Bruce said while the event is a great option for recycling damaged or worn-out textiles, high-quality clothing is best donated locally where possible.
"Donating good quality items to local op shops helps keep resources circulating within our community and supports local charities," Ms Bruce said.
"The materials collected through the textile recycling event will be processed by leading recycling company, RRR Australia to ensure textiles are given the best possible second life.
"Items suitable for reuse are donated or sold to communities in Australia and overseas for re-wearing.
"Others are repurposed into Australian-made industrial cleaning rags and damaged or excess textiles are recycled into new products like blankets and towels."
Accepted items include clothing, shoes, linen, blankets, small bags, hats, mats, belts, accessories, towels and underwear. Please ensure all items are clean and dry.
Items not accepted include wet or damp textiles, batteries, soft toys, doonas, pillows, cushions, off-cuts, electric blankets or any bags and mats larger than 50 centimetres.
This event is funded by the Canberra Region Joint Organisation (CRJO).
For more information about the event, visit Council's website.
