Over the last few months, we are witnessing a significant increase in the number of companies committing to the recycling of textile waste, specifically post-consumer denim textile waste. Vilarrasa is no exception, which is why in this article we will explore what is involved, how denim waste is given a new life and the process of converting it into regenerated yarn.
The importance of recycling in the textile industry
One of the main factors for which the textile industry is known is its high demand on natural resources and its generation of waste. Denim, in particular, is a very popular material, but highly polluting in its production and disposal process.
For this reason, the recycling of post-consumer denim textile waste plays a key role in building a more sustainable and environmentally friendly industry. By utilising this waste and converting it back into recycled yarn, the need for virgin materials is reduced and the amount of waste sent to landfill is reduced.
The process of transforming denim waste into recycled yarn
The process of transforming post-consumer denim textile waste into recycled yarn is a technical challenge, and thanks to technological advances in the sector, it has become more efficient and cost-effective. The following is an overview of the process:
Collection and sorting of post-consumer denim
The first step in the process is the collection and sorting of post-consumer denim. These jeans are sorted and the material is worked to separate out accessories such as zips, buttons and other unwanted materials.
Shredding of the denim
Once sorted, the jeans undergo a shredding process. In this stage, the fabrics are torn until you have a shredded material containing the cotton fibres. When you have the denim fibre, we recommend blending the fabric with recycled polyester fibres to gain strength in the yarn.
Spinning and production of recycled yarn
Finally, the fibres are spun back into recycled yarn. The result is a high-quality yarn that can be used to manufacture new textile products.
The future of post-consumer denim textile recycling
The growth of post-consumer denim textile recycling is a trend that will continue into the future. As more companies join this initiative, it will generate more and more new innovative and sustainable solutions for the fashion sector.
Recycling post-consumer denim waste is therefore an increasingly widespread practice in the textile industry. This process of transforming denim waste into recycled yarn contributes to the sustainability of the sector by reducing dependence on virgin materials and reducing the amount of waste generated. Vilarrasa, together with other committed companies, is leading this textile recycling revolution and leading the way towards a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry.
