How do you recycle polyester?

Polyester recycling: a key process for more sustainable fashion

Polyester is one of the most widely used fibers in the fashion industry due to its durability, strength and relatively low cost. However, being a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum, polyester poses significant environmental challenges. Fortunately, polyester recycling offers a solution to reduce these impacts. Here's how the polyester recycling process works, from collecting materials to transforming them into new products.

1. Collection of materials

The first step in recycling polyester is to collect the used materials. This includes not only end-of-life clothing, but also other products like PET plastic bottles, which are a major source of recycled polyester. Collection points vary, from recycling containers in communities to specific programs set up by brands or retailers.

2. Sorting and preparation

Once collected, polyester materials are sorted based on color and type. Clothing and other textiles are often sorted manually, while plastic bottles can be processed by optical sorting machines. This sorting is crucial because it separates the polyester from other fibers and contaminants.

3. Grinding and granulation

The sorted polyester items are then ground into small pieces or flakes. In the case of PET bottles, this also includes the removal of labels and caps. The flakes are then melted and extruded in the form of granules, which will serve as raw material for the manufacture of new polyester yarns.

4. Spinning

Recycled polyester pellets are melted and spun into new yarns, in a process similar to that used for virgin polyester. These yarns can be used alone or blended with other fibers, whether virgin or recycled, to make a variety of textiles.

5. Manufacturing of new products

The recycled polyester yarn is then woven or knitted to create new fabrics, which will be transformed into a multitude of products, from clothing to other items like backpacks or furniture upholstery. Recycled polyester is particularly popular in segments where durability and water resistance are important.

6. Challenges and perspectives

Although recycling polyester is a major step toward more sustainable fashion, it does present challenges. The quality of recycled polyester can vary, and the recycling process itself consumes energy and resources. In addition, mechanical recycling of polyester can ultimately degrade the quality of the fibers.

Despite these challenges, recycling polyester is an essential approach to reducing waste, saving resources and reducing dependence on oil.

By supporting recycling initiatives and choosing products made with recycled polyester, consumers can help push the industry toward more sustainable practices.

With technological advances and growing awareness, the future of polyester recycling looks promising for fashion that respects our planet.