Dunelm, the homeware retailer has launched its new textile recycling scheme at various stores across the United Kingdom. The attempt has been made to encourage customers to return their unwanted household fabrics. The concept has been piloted at stores in Nottingham and Stockton to promote a circular economy. The scheme includes items such as duvet covers, sheets, towels and curtains to be recycled and repurposed depending on the condition of each product.

Shriya Pancholi, the sustainability team leader, stated that they wanted to get better at caring for the environment and ensuring that recycling becomes easier for their customers by making it a normal act was their approach. 

UK consumers will now be able to return unwanted homeware fabrics such as used bedding, throws, tablecloths, placemats and aprons to various stores located in the UK.

The initiative aligns with Dunelm’s ambition to drastically improve their sustainability credentials and has done so at a time the retailers are striving to reduce carbon emissions, produce more sustainable materials and enhance their waste management protocols. 

In order to execute this scheme, the company has partnered with the UK recycler First Mile, hoping to streamline product recycling. The infrastructure of the scheme will see First Mile collect all unwanted items directly from stores before the firm deems it can be salvaged. The products that cannot be reused or repaired will be converted into either filler for car seats or boxing bags.

Pancholi stated that they have launched their textile recycling scheme as they want to help do their bit for the environment and give products a second life.  The company is excited to execute their part of the partnership with First Mile, who claim to have a ‘zero to landfill’ conversion ratio.