In the face of a global ecological crisis, the issue of responsible waste management has become critically important.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), widely used in the production of plastic bottles and textile products, is one of the most common types of plastic. According to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), approximately 70% of plastic bottles worldwide are recycled. This indicates a high level of public awareness and developed infrastructure for recycling this type of waste. In contrast, textile products made from polyester fibers typically have a much lower recycling rate—less than 15%. This highlights significant challenges in logistics and technologies that still need to be overcome.
The recycling of polyester textiles involves complex processes such as sorting by color and material type, removing auxiliary elements (such as buttons and zippers), and chemical fiber decomposition. The lack of specialized facilities and technological lines makes this process more costly and less attractive to investors.
To improve the situation, investments are needed in the development of recycling technologies and the creation of new materials that are easier to recycle. Public outreach aimed at raising awareness of recycling issues and opportunities for textiles is also important.
Effective PET recycling plays a key role in reducing environmental impact. Proper attention to textile recycling can not only reduce waste but also contribute to the development of new, more sustainable production practices. Joint efforts by consumers, businesses, and government agencies can create the necessary conditions for positive change.