Reclaiming Fabric

One of the biggest negative environmental impacts comes from fabrics. FRP has recently started reclaiming fabric as part of our mission is to protect the environment and divert surplus material away from landfill and use it to inspire social change.

Why we reclaim fabric

Reduce Landfill and CO2 Emissions

It is estimated that of 400 billion m2 of fabric made every year, 60 billion m2 ends up on the cutting room floor. When disposed in landfill, dyes and chemicals in fabric can leach into the soil, contaminating both surface and groundwater. FRP offers an intervention in the chain of fabric production to reduce an impact on landfill and CO2 emissions.

Alternative end-of-life

Fabric waste normally goes to landfill. FRP offer an alternative end-of-life system by using reclaimed fabric to encourage social change. FRP offers volunteering opportunities where community members come together to learn about sustainability and gain new skills in working with fabric. Fabrics are also being made available for creative projects in schools and community organisations.

click here for more information on how to reuse fabrics.Click here to watch the video made in partnership with North London Waste Authority to help find inspiration on how and why to revamp household items.

Environmental Impact / Stats

1481

Kg of textiles reclaimed

3080

Kg of CO2 diverted away from landfill

16

Kg of textiles diverted to education

*Stats correct as of 17th of May, 2019

***IMPORTANT MESSAGE – WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ACCEPT YOUR FABRIC, HABERDASHERY AND OTHER TEXTILES DONATION IMMEDIATELY***

 

The great news is that we have recently received lots of amazing donations but the downside to this is that our limited storage area is currently full. As a result, we may not be able to take your donation in the short term until we have space.

However, please do send us the following details and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

  1. Fabric types, sizes, composition, intended usage, colour, and quantity and attach pictures. 
  2. Descriptions of any other items – craft items, wool, or haberdashery.
  3. Provide your address or postal code area and whether you can deliver the donation. If you are local, we may be able to collect your donation.

Note – that we do not take clothing, curtains or other already made items.

The more information you can provide, the more you help us to respond to you quickly. 

Our aim is to reduce the impact of fabric wastage and fabrics going to landfill or incineration. Donated fabrics are used by the charity to teach volunteers from the community new skills in sewing and craft, or they are sold in our shop, giving the fabric a second life, and generating funds for the charity. For more information on the Forest Recycling Project, please visit our website https://www.frpuk.org

How We Reclaim Fabric

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Step One - Donate and Recycle with FRP

If you are a London-based maker or company (e.g. upholsterer, exhibition company, film production company, home-ware, interior designer, fashion designer, theatre, architecture or design company) that produces surplus or fabric waste, such as unwanted bolts, end-of-line pieces and samples you can donate and recycle us with us.
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Step Two - Volunteering and Skill Sharing Opportunities

We work with local communities and residents, offering meaningful volunteering opportunities and skills sharing sessions to gain experience in the sustainability sector. We also provide corporate volunteer sessions tailored for companies interested in corporate responsibility

Reclaimed Fabric Project Gallery