Reducing Textile Waste

As a Los Angeles Certified Green Business, Project Ropa is deeply committed to both environmental sustainability and community impact. Our work extends far beyond giving a second life to clothing and shoes—we aim to reduce the staggering amount of waste generated by the fashion industry, which produces over 92 million tons of solid waste annually. In the U.S. alone, more than 12 million tons of textiles are sent to landfills each year, despite the fact that 95% of this material could be reused or recycled.

Repurposing just one gently used garment can extend its life by an average of 2.2 years, significantly cutting down its carbon, water, and waste footprint—especially when considering it takes 715 gallons of water to produce a single cotton shirt and 1,800 gallons for a pair of jeans.

At Project Ropa, we serve as a one-stop resource for reusing and recycling both new and secondhand clothing and shoes. We rescue, redistribute, repurpose, recycle, and resell surplus items—including slightly damaged or imperfect apparel, shoes, and accessories. The majority of these goods are distributed directly to unhoused and low-income individuals across Los Angeles through our mobile services and trusted community partners, helping to restore dignity while promoting sustainable living.

Rescue & Redistribute

We work with retailers, manufacturers, nonprofit organizations, and individuals to give surplus, sample, imperfect, and secondhand clothing and shoes a second chance at life.

The practice of diverting textiles from landfills to those in need represents a pragmatic and compassionate strategy that not only reduces waste but also fosters a more sustainable and environmentally conscious society.

By intercepting these items before they reach landfills, we contribute to a significant reduction in the volume of textiles that would otherwise decompose and release into the atmosphere harmful greenhouse gasses, such as methane. This proactive approach aligns with the principles of the circular economy, as it extends the lifespan of clothing and shoes, minimizing the demand for new production and conserving the resources that go into making them.

Moreover, diverting these items to local communities fosters a sense of social responsibility and interconnectedness, as individuals and businesses are not only reducing waste but also contributing to the well-being of their neighbors in need.

REPURPOSING, RECYCLING & RESALE

We responsibly recycle plastic film and multi-layer plastics through our partner Ridwell. Plastic film is sent to Trex to be repurposed into composite decking, while multi-layer plastics—like granola bar wrappers—are sent to Hydroblox, where they’re transformed into drainage materials that help direct stormwater into aquifers. Damaged or stained textiles are also given to Ridwell, which partners with Phoenix Fibers to repurpose them into new materials, keeping them out of landfills and supporting a more circular economy.

To help offset the operating expenses of our programs we sell a small percentage of donated items online and at local markets. We do not send any of these items overseas. We might sell items such as a Chanel handbag or Christian Louboutin shoes, as well as vintage items. All proceeds directly go towards funding our programs for those in need.

Corporate Social Responsibility

The high consumption and disposal of fast fashion are creating large amounts of post-consumer textile waste, making recycling and reuse that much more urgent.

Project Ropa partners with companies that understand the importance of social responsibility and want to join us in doing good within the community. By supporting our organization, they are helping us to transform lives and find jobs for those most in need.