Is the process of making polyester fiber from recycled garments less harmful to the environment than making polyester fiber from virgin materials?
Yes. Research shows that the environmental impact of using worn-out clothing to make new polyester fiber is significantly lower than making that same fiber from virgin materials derived from petroleum. By diverting worn-out garments from landfills, we reduce solid waste. Diverting them from incinerators results in an energy savings of 76% and a CO2 emissions [greenhouse gas] reduction of 71%. Garments made with recycled fibers use 50-100% less virgin polyester, which reduces our use of oil.
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