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ZERO
WASTE
Local action for a global solution
Powered by Hamilton County ReSource
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Since 2017, Sew Valley has been searching for a solution for the unusable fabric scraps we produce in our facility, and we are thrilled to share that we finally have one!
Sew Valley’s Fabric Shredding Program transforms fabric scrap waste into sustainable fill and fiber boards, offering a green alternative to virgin poly stuffing. This initiative provides a circular solution for both individuals and businesses to divert textile waste and access eco-friendly materials for products like pillows, insulation, and soundproofing boards.
***Our Zero Waste Program is currently in its pilot phase. Follow us online & sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when it opens to the public!
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THE GLOBAL ISSUE
THE WASTE CRISIS IN FASHION & TEXTILES
The fashion industry generates massive waste, with a garbage truck’s worth of clothing discarded every second and contributing 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. From landfills visible from space in Chile to toxic textile dyes polluting rivers in Bangladesh, the impact is undeniable, even synthetic fibers have been found in marine life. Without urgent action, global waste is expected to surge from 2.3 billion to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050.
A CALL FOR CIRCULAR SOLUTIONS
The key to reducing waste in the fashion industry lies in circularity, keeping materials in use for as long as possible. This can be achieved through:
Better fabric recycling
Only 1% of textiles are currently recycled into new garments
Eliminating hazardous chemicals
Over 15,000 chemicals are used in textile production
Shifting Mindsets
Marketing has driven overconsumption, doubling production while reducing wear time by 36% since 2000.
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LOCAL ACTION
TRANSFORMING TEXTILE WASTE INTO SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS
At Sew Valley, we believe that local solutions can drive global impact. That’s why we’re launching a Zero Waste Program, designed to keep textile waste out of landfills and in circulation.
HOW IT WORKS
Sew Valley’s Zero Waste Program repurposes textile waste into fabric fill ("shoddy") for upholstery, insulation, and soundproofing opportunities. . After a pilot phase, we will open the program to the public, allowing individuals to drop off unusable fabric scraps for processing or purchase shredded material by the pound, creating a scalable, community-driven solution to fabric waste. Follow us online and sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when it opens to the public!
A SCALABLE IMPACT
Sew Valley generates 2,000 lbs of fabric waste annually. Currently, no facility in Greater Cincinnati accepts textile waste for recycling. By launching this program, we will:
Achieve zero-waste manufacturing at Sew Valley
Offer a drop-off service for individuals and businesses to recycle their fabric wast
Provide sustainable materials for companies looking for eco-friendly alternatives