In collaboration with NewRetex A/S, a special project shows how both the design of the collection container and social factors affect the outcome. An important discovery is that the right container and clear communication with both collectors and citizens is crucial for sustainable textile collection.
A new thesis study conducted by Mette Kirk Steenberg Jensen from the University of Southern Denmark highlights the importance of developing and improving methods for collecting and pre-sorting textile waste. The aim of the study is to increase the amount of reuse and material recycling while minimizing problems with moisture and contamination in the collected textile material. The results make a significant contribution to the work on sustainable textile waste management and support the development of efficient collection systems under the SorTex project.
In close collaboration with NewRetex, the study combines design anthropology methods with advanced data analytics from the company's MES system, which tracks textiles throughout the collection and sorting chain. The study highlights how the interplay between material design, collection infrastructure and social practices is crucial for the quality of the collected textile waste.
Collection containers are a decisive factor for textile quality
One of the key findings of the study is the clear correlation between the type of collection container, rainfall, emptying frequency and the occurrence of wet textiles.
Data from NewRetex and DMI is included in a correlation analysis where the degree of correlation between precipitation in different periods and geographical areas is calculated in relation to the amount of wet textiles in the different container solutions used in Denmark.
The analysis showed that 660-liter containers and larger shipping containers generally exhibit low sensitivity to rain. Here, moisture content is more dependent on social factors - such as proper textile delivery, proper handling and closed lids - than on weather influences. However, it should be noted that the 660-liter containers included in the study were placed under canopies, which naturally reduced their exposure to rain.
In contrast, the analysis showed that shipping containers with side inlets are significantly more sensitive to rain, resulting in a higher amount of wet and contaminated textiles. However, the analysis showed that even these containers can maintain relatively low moisture levels when citizens and collection staff demonstrate good practices such as proper use of the containers and frequent emptying.
The correlation analysis also showed that emptying frequency has a significant impact across all container types. Regardless of the materiality of the container, more frequent emptying significantly reduces the risk of moisture damage and contamination. The results indicate that it is not only the container design, but the interaction between materiality, precipitation and social practices that ultimately determines the quality of the collected textile material.
The social practices in the infrastructure are essential for stable collection routines
The study also highlights social practices as crucial to successful textile collection. Both the knowledge and engagement of citizens, as well as the training and practices of collection staff, have a major impact on avoiding contamination and ensuring proper sorting. Through interviews and field observations, concrete examples have been identified where clear communication and information efforts have improved results. In the project, information signs have been developed and tested to support understanding and stimulate behavioral changes that lead to more correct sorting. These actions are important steps towards establishing a correct and effective "proto-practice", an initial common understanding and behavioral change, in textile collection.
No one-size-fits-all solution, but locally adapted systems
The study states that there is no one solution that fits all textile collection situations. To ensure effective collection practices, methods must be designed and tailored to local conditions such as population density, housing types and geographical characteristics. It is also essential to consider collection systems as dynamic and iterative, with continuous evaluation and adaptation to meet changing needs and demands.
Mette Kirk Steenberg Jensen's thesis study is a significant contribution to the development of flexible and efficient methods for textile waste management. The results will be an integral part of the SorTex project's efforts to help Nordic stakeholders and municipalities comply with the new EU requirements for separate textile collection and create a more circular and sustainable textile industry.