To help inform implementation of California’s Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707), Cascadia partnered with USAgain to estimate the scale of textile disposal and the infrastructure needed to support increased statewide collection for reuse. Our analysis estimates that nearly 1.2 million tons of textiles were landfilled in 2021—costing Californians approximately $99 million annually in disposal expenses, while forfeiting significant environmental and economic value.
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The report identifies substantial potential benefits if textiles are diverted to responsible reuse and recycling markets. Diverting 10% of textiles to reuse could create an estimated 1,000 green jobs, while 24% diversion could create up to 2,500 jobs and avoid as much as 1.7 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions. By prioritizing reuse—preserving the water, energy, and materials embedded in textile production—California can reduce landfill costs while strengthening its circular economy.
However, achieving these outcomes will depend on effective, real-world implementation. Cascadia’s research underscores the importance of ensuring transparency in end markets and building a convenient, accessible statewide collection network, and notes that local governments can play an important role, including through modernizing local siting and permitting rules. As the state enters the next phase of state rulemaking and municipal decision-making, thoughtful design and early coordination will be critical to positioning SB 707 as a national model for textile circularity.
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California’s fashion waste: a $99 million problem impacting sustainability goals
