Objective
This activity explores the complexity and challenges of recyclability through material identification. By conducting a wardrobe analysis, students will understand the importance of correct labelling for end-of-life textiles recycling. This activity is part of the ‘RECYCLE’ circular strategy, with a focus on designing for recyclability.
What to prepare
Time
- 2–4 hours to explore the wardrobe, depending on group size and the amount of garments to be analysed
- 2–4 hours to reinvent these garments to make them fit for recyclability
Tools
- 3–10 pieces of clothing
Activity brief
Prior to the activity kick-off, we suggest that your students review the topic ‘RECYCLABILITY’.
This activity develops the critical thinking of emerging designers concerning the recyclability of products. Ensuring the recyclability of products means taking responsibility for their end-of-life by considering recycling solutions and how these will impact certain product features, so that products ultimately never become ‘waste’. Many current sorting and recycling processes rely on correct labelling and materials identification to accurately segregate materials for recycling. However, incorrect labelling is prevalent due to weak labelling requirements. Many clothing consists of mixed fibres, and sometimes even 1% of elastane included in an otherwise single fibre garment can prevent it from being recycled.
In line with the ‘RECYCLE’ circular strategy, the focus of this activity is on designing for recyclability. So, we ask students, how recyclable is your wardrobe? And how can we improve the recyclability of clothing through better design decisions?
Part 1 - Explore your wardrobe
Your first task is to analyse the clothing in your wardrobe, working either in a group or individually to answer the questions below.
- If working in a group, each group member should analyse 10 pieces of clothing in their wardrobes from a specific product category (e.g. tops, bras, dresses, skirts, pants, socks, sweaters, jackets). Get together as a group to share and discuss your findings, keeping in mind the task you have ahead in part 2 of this project brief.
- If working individually, analyse 3–4 pieces of clothing for 3 different product categories (for example, 3 of the following: tops, bras, dresses, skirts, trousers, socks, sweaters, jackets)
Answer the following questions for each item you are analysing:
- What is the material composition of the garment? (including outer shell, inner layers, etc.)
- What is the material composition of the thread used?
- What is the material composition of the label used?
- Does the garment contain any finishing, coating, or removable film prints? If so, does this type of finishing inhibit recycling?
- How many types of trimmings are used? What is the material of the trimmings? How are the trims attached?
Part 2 - Design for recyclability
Pick one item of clothing you have analysed from part 1. Your challenge is to improve the recyclability of the garment without drastically changing its look. For example, you can explore alternative fibre composition, reducing the number of components, using alternative fastening methods, etc.
The additional caveat is to consider your local recycling capabilities. How can you better enable the recycling of your garment at the end of its life? Research and play around in this under-explored space!
Outcome
- A document showing your wardrobe analysis, with answers to all questions above
- A sketchbook which should include:
- Your research and the rationale behind your design for recyclability approach
- Development of your design including concept, illustrations, and production drawings
- Justifications for how your design for recyclability approach is in line with local recycling capabilities
- Share your final garment design with the group, explaining what you have learnt and how you improved the recyclability of the clothing.