Unifi Inc., the maker of REPREVE®, has announced a major expansion of its cutting-edge Textile Takeback™ program. The initiative aims to collect and recycle pre- and post-consumer polyester-based fabric waste to create REPREVE, a recycled performance fiber used in leading brands and eco-friendly products around the world.

In an industry where millions of tons of textile waste are thrown away annually, Textile Takeback seeks to change the take-make-waste paradigm by offering a sustainable method for recycling landfill-bound textiles and producing new goods. The Company uses UNIFI's patented technique to convert waste polyester-based textiles, both dyed and undyed, into recycled resin using an inventive material conversion procedure.

After that, the recycled resin is transformed into REPREVE fiber, or it can be combined with recycled bottle material to meet specific requirements. After that, the material starts over its life cycle, saving a trip to the landfill. Textile Takeback from UNIFI is a practical step toward tackling the waste footprint of the industry because it focuses on sustainable solutions that establish a closed-loop circular system.

Eddie Ingle, CEO of UNIFI, said that UNIFI has always considered sustainability as a movement – not a moment. They’re excited to grow Textile Takeback to provide their partners with a sustainable solution that contributes to a more circular supply chain for everyone.

Since 1971, UNIFI, an established leader in its field, has promoted sustainable innovation. UNIFI, the company behind REPREVE, has recycled over 35 billion plastic bottles into fiber for new clothing, shoes, home furnishings, and other consumer goods. Textile Takeback, which was initially tested in 2011, will have a more significant worldwide presence and product application reach, enabling partners to access a sustainable waste solution on a large scale.

Meredith Boyd, senior vice president of Technology, Innovation & Sustainability of UNIFI, said that finding new solutions to help their partners accomplish their sustainability goals is constantly front of mind. They are one step closer to constructing a future where waste is the exception rather than the rule by expanding their Textile Takeback initiative.