Pollution is anything that contaminates our environment. It can be in the form of carbon dioxide emissions from cars, non-recycled aluminum and plastic containers that are thrown into our oceans and yes, even old clothing that piles up in our landfills.

A group of friends living in New York City decided to tackle the clothing crisis by creating Wearable Collections, an eco-friendly program that sets up and distributes clothing recycling bins in NYC buildings and then donates the clothing to charitable organizations around the world.

The Process

The process for collecting the clothing is simple, but the effect it has on impoverished individuals worldwide is quite profound. Here’s how the program works:

• The bins are placed in the buildings
• Pick-up dates are posted on flyers or sent to registered email accounts
• The items are picked up once a week (recycled items include hats, shoes, towels, bags, belts and more)
• Donations are distributed to individuals in Africa, Central America and South America

One of the best things about this program is that anyone can sign up for it on the Wearable Collections website here, and it’s a great way to get your school or organization to join together for a good cause.

The Progress

Even though this program is only available in New York City, the purpose behind it can certainly expand across the nation. This is a truly genius idea that was created by people who care about the environment and human life, and I hope that their vision initiates other people to recycle more of everything to ensure that nothing goes to waste.