A recent survey conducted by RMIT has revealed that many Australians are uncertain about how to dispose of unwanted clothing, with one in three resorting to throwing these items in the trash. This study, which is the first of its kind to examine clothing use and disposal habits on a national scale, highlights a significant issue in textile waste management.
The survey, which included responses from 3,080 Australians, found that a staggering 84% of participants owned clothes they hadn’t worn in the past year. Alarmingly, one-third of respondents reported that they hadn’t worn more than half of their wardrobe during that time.
In light of these findings, researchers are advocating for the implementation of a national recycling scheme aimed at reducing the approximately 200,000 tonnes of textiles that end up in landfills each year. The study underscores the need for clearer guidance on clothing disposal options to help Australians make more sustainable choices.
Question 1: What percentage of Australians are throwing unwanted clothes in the rubbish according to the survey?
About one in three Australians, or approximately 33%, are throwing their unwanted clothes in the rubbish.
Question 2: What does the RMIT-led study recommend to address the issue of textile waste?
The study recommends implementing a national recycling scheme to help reduce the 200,000 tonnes of textiles sent to landfill each year.
Question 3: How many Australians participated in the RMIT-led survey?
A total of 3,080 Australians participated in the survey.
Question 4: What percentage of people reported owning garments they hadn’t worn in the past year?
According to the survey, 84% of people reported owning garments they hadn’t worn in the past year.
Question 5: What portion of respondents had not worn more than half of their wardrobe?
A third of the respondents indicated that they hadn’t worn more than half of their wardrobe.