Unifi to expand Textile Takeback program

Greensboro, North Carolina-based Unifi has announced what it says is a major expansion of its Textile Takeback program. The initiative is designed to collect and recycle polyester-based fabric, including pre- and postconsumer fabrics, and transform them into the company’s Repreve recycled performance fiber, which can be used in a variety of products.

The company says the goal of its Textile Takeback program is to transform the industry’s take-make-waste model by providing a sustainable way to recycle landfill-bound textiles and create new products. Unifi says it can turn dyed and undyed polyester-based textile discards into recycled resin through a proprietary material conversion process. The recycled resin is then converted into Repreve fiber, or it can be blended with recycled bottle material to achieve desired specifications.

“Unifi has always seen sustainability as a movement—not a moment,” Unifi CEO Eddie Ingle says. “We are thrilled to expand Textile Takeback to provide our partners with a sustainable solution that helps to create a more circular supply chain for all.”

Unifi says Repreve has transformed more than 35 billion plastic bottles into recycled fiber for new apparel, footwear, home goods and other consumer products. Initially piloted in 2011, Textile Takeback will include an expanded global footprint and product application scope, making a sustainable solution for materials accessible to partners at scale, the company says.

“Finding new ways to help our partners meet their sustainability goals is always top of mind,” Unifi SVP of Technology, Innovation and Sustainability Meredith Boyd says. “By expanding our Textile Takeback initiative, we are one step closer to shaping a future where waste is the exception—not the rule.”