Recently, at an online stakeholder meeting in India, ReFiber announced the launch of a nationwide textile waste recycling campaign called "Say Goodbye to Idle Clothes." The campaign unites industry organizations and nonprofit institutions, aiming to raise public awareness and open up more convenient pathways for the collection, reuse, and upcycling of discarded clothing.

Through ReFiber's digital platform, residents can simply use the app to schedule a door-to-door pickup of clothes they no longer wear. Supported by Tisser Artisan Trust, the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and Lions Clubs International, the campaign aims to drive a shift in consumption habits and promote circularity in the textile industry.

At the launch ceremony, Vrunda Desai, Textile Commissioner of India's Ministry of Textiles, noted that India generates about 7 million tons of textile waste each year, nearly 58% of which comes from the post-consumer stage. Every discarded garment embodies valuable resources such as fiber, water, energy, chemicals, as well as transportation and labor. She praised the convenient digital door-to-door collection service offered by ReFiber, emphasizing that users do not need to go out—they can complete a booking with just a click of a button.

ReFiber also requested that the Ministry of Textiles help connect the platform with upcyclers across the country. The company plans to use its "Upcycling Marketplace" to provide a dedicated space for recycled and upcycled products, supporting small businesses and artisans.

Dr. Megha Phansalkar, founder of Tisser Artisan Trust, encouraged changing perceptions of discarded textiles, advocating that they be viewed as raw materials that can continue to be used rather than as waste. CMAI Chairman Santosh Katariya emphasized the social and environmental benefits of recycling, noting that collecting, recycling, and upcycling can keep clothing out of landfills and is expected to increase women's participation in the recycling economy. Dr. Pankaj Kumar, UNIDO National Project Coordinator, stressed the importance of financial sustainability, arguing that successful regional pilots can provide a reference for nationwide expansion.

ReFiber Chief Operating Officer Manoj Wanvari suggested drawing on Sweden's ReTuna model. ReTuna is the world's first recycling shopping mall, where all goods sold are recycled, reused, or organically sustainably produced. He proposed developing similar facilities in India with government support to strengthen the circular economy.

The "Say Goodbye to Idle Clothes" campaign coincides with India's celebration of the 80th anniversary of its independence. As of the launch, the ReFiber app had received about 42 collection requests, and public participation is growing naturally.

Source: ReFiber tackles India’s textile waste with nationwide recovery drive · Originally published on 2026-08-24