Is it possible to recycle clothes in Ecuador? How does it work?

Just as trends and fashion evolve over time, so do the sustainable practices. The idea of ​​not repeating looks or sets has been left behind, because now the recycling of garments in good condition It works in various parts of the world as an alternative to extend the life of clothing.

The ‘fast fashion’as mass-produced clothing to be worn rarely by the same person is known, is a method used by the textile industries that causes damage to the environment and is counterproductive for buyers as it forces them to keep up with the clothes fashionable and discard what is no longer used.

“By having new garments in circulation in stores every 15 days, this triggers a series of negative consequences for social and environmental development,” he explains. patrick grandson, owner of a virtual second-hand clothing store, Moda Para Tu Bolsillo. Some of these negative consequences are the disproportionate use of water, pollution of rivers, which are used for consumption by the communities, and the exploitation of the workers by the fashion industry.

“When we talk about sustainable fashion, we talk about garments that are friendly to the environment, based on more natural textile materials and free of toxic products, but above all that respects and values ​​workers and labor,” says Nieto.

Is it possible to recycle clothes in Ecuador?

According to the image consultant, it is possible to maximize this practice in our country. There are already several clothing stores that allow their customers to exchange clothes, buy second-hand or donate their clothes that they no longer wear. “It is already being done in small steps, consumers are taught that they have other consumption alternatives, such as second-hand clothes, customizing old clothes and transforming them into new clothes,” says Nieto.

However, the Ecuadorian textile industry it still has to take more steps to promote this sustainable custom. According to Nieto, the industry can “support financially, with training for Ecuadorian designers and artisans and carry out massive campaigns for Ecuadorians to consume locally.”

“We have the misperception that wearing foreign clothes is the best. Ecuadorians do not value the garments made by our artisans, while foreigners proudly carry our crafts”, affirms the owner of Moda Para Tu Bolsillo. He also advises citizens to “learn to value what is already in the closet”.

There is nothing more sustainable than an existing garment. You must learn to have basic garments with which you can make many combinations and avoid garments that are “in” or that are worn by the artist of the moment, are some of the expert’s recommendations.

Keys to achieve a closet with sustainable and practical clothes

so you can start

There are several ways to apply sustainable practices from the closet itself. According to Nieto, the main one is know your own style not to buy clothes based on passing fashions. This way the garments will last much longer and we will not have to constantly spend on new clothes.

Another smart way to support sustainable practices in fashion is to trade, donate, or sell clothing to stores that specialize in second-hand consumption. H&M, the European brand that recently opened branches in Quito and Guayaquil, allows its customers around the world to donate clothes in its stores in exchange for discount coupons.

The goal is to dress well, with a defined style and with environmental awareness. Are you ready to start?