In recent years, textile-conservation efforts have evolved significantly, along with innovative efforts emerging from the companies, associations and non-profit groups that are focused on achieving Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) policy goals. Tighter regulations on the disposal of “end-of-life textiles” in North America and Europe (see bit.ly/EUtextile for details) also have helped spur action. In the U.S., for example, the state of Massachusetts recently implemented new rules that will ban the disposal of textile waste by businesses and other organizations in Bay State landfills. Similar regulations are emerging elsewhere, and they appear likely to spread.

Juan Guillen, general manager of ...