Darmstadt explains: How to dispose of your old textiles correctly!
Darmstadt provides information about the separate collection requirement for textile waste that will apply from 2025 and its environmentally friendly disposal.

Darmstadt explains: How to dispose of your old textiles correctly!
Something is happening in Germany's cities when it comes to textile waste! From January 1, 2025, old clothes and used textiles must be collected separately. This new regulation is fueling confusion, especially among citizens who are unsure how to deal with their old clothing. The Darmstadt regional council explains what needs to be taken into account and how disposal should be carried out.
As Rheinmainverlag reports, heavily soiled or worn clothing items may be disposed of with residual waste if there is no possibility of separate collection. Textiles that are in good condition, on the other hand, belong in the used clothing collection. The aim of this new regulation is to promote the recycling of textiles and protect the environment. Citizens are called upon to actively participate.
The issue of environmental protection is becoming more and more relevant, and the deficiencies in the textile industry are increasingly coming to light. Many people have already pointed out the devastating effects of the fast fashion industry. As the [Consumer Center Hamburg](https://www.vzhh.de/presse/verwirrung-um-ge Separattsammlungspflicht-fuer-altkleider) states, many consumers are unsure whether they now have to dispose of their old clothing differently. Tristan Jorde from the consumer advice center explains that heavily soiled or broken textiles can no longer end up in household waste, as separate collection is currently not technically possible. So couch potatoes don't have to worry about throwing their damaged shirts into the old clothes bin!
The goal: a better recycling rate
Another important point is the recycling rate in Germany. Currently, around 64% of used textiles are collected and over 90% of them are reused or recycled. The Pirna District Office website informs that private individuals must also ensure that their old textiles are disposed of separately from residual waste. This means that commercial waste producers are also obliged to comply with the regulations. And the advantages are obvious: if more old things are reused or recycled, it helps conserve resources.
The new regulation on the obligation to collect separately requires citizens to rethink. To maximize the benefits of the new regulations, it is recommended to purchase high quality and durable clothing. Repairs and adjustments are also a good way to extend the life of clothing instead of constantly buying new things. At least it doesn't hurt your wallet to focus more on quality. And in this way you actively support the environment!
The challenges of textile disposal
But not everything is so easy. There are still significant challenges in recycling textiles. The cheap clothing industry leaves its mark by releasing large quantities of low-quality fabrics onto the market. The recycling process is often complicated and lacks suitable procedures. Jorde from the consumer advice center is therefore calling for a fundamental realignment of the textile industry in order to reduce the amount of reusable textiles in residual waste and increase the recycling rate.
The bottom line is that each of us can make a contribution by being conscious about our wardrobe. If we pay attention to where we put our old clothes and, if necessary, lend a hand to repair things ourselves, we all benefit. Ultimately, it is up to us to help shape the change in the textile industry and take a step towards a more sustainable future.