
US NIST develops database to boost textiles and clothing recycling
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States has developed a groundbreaking database designed to enhance the recycling of textiles and clothing. This new tool aims to support the circular economy by providing critical information and data to improve the efficiency and scalability of textile recycling technologies.
The NIST database is designed to help manufacturers, researchers, and recycling facilities better understand the characteristics of various textile materials, including their chemical composition, physical properties, and recyclability potential. By offering detailed insights into the properties of different fabrics, the database will make it easier to identify which materials can be efficiently recycled and how to handle them in the recycling process.
With the global textile industry generating millions of tons of waste each year, the development of this database comes at a critical time when sustainability is becoming a key focus within the fashion and textiles sectors. The initiative aims to reduce textile waste that often ends up in landfills, while promoting the reuse of materials in the production of new garments and products.
The NIST’s database is expected to play a key role in supporting innovation in textile recycling technologies. It will also provide a valuable resource for businesses aiming to incorporate more sustainable practices into their supply chains, helping them to identify recycling opportunities and reduce their environmental impact.
As part of the U.S. government’s broader efforts to promote sustainability, this initiative aligns with ongoing regulatory and industry-driven moves to reduce waste and foster a more sustainable and circular textile industry. By fostering better recycling practices, the NIST database is poised to help the textile and apparel industry make significant strides towards a more sustainable future.