• Energy Recovery (lowest value): This recycling method consists of converting materials/products into secondary combustibles, which are then used for producing heat or electricity. This solution is only appropriate in cases where:
  • It is the only accessible solution for certain regions where the textile recycling infrastructure is not developed enough, OR 
  • For clothing that may contain many accessories/plastic prints which makes it too difficult to process for downcycling machines

Though upcycling and reconstruction are techniques to recover materials, it’s important to note that these methods are not considered ‘recycling’ as the original garment/material is not transformed back to fibres before being reused. 

To clarify, upcycling is the practice of transforming ‘waste materials’ into products of equal or higher value. In fashion, this means prolonging textiles’ life and turning them into new designs and products. For example, end-of-rolls destined for recycling or landfill could be used to create a smaller production batch of dresses, or small fabric swatches could be sewed together to make a tote bag.

Reconstruction, also known as remanufacturing, is a form of upcycling, but the ‘waste materials’ are not 2D textiles, they are existing garments or accessories. For example, an old pair of denim jeans could be reconstructed into a denim jacket, or old leather belts into a bag.