Recycling Textile Waste in Hospitality: A Step towards Sustainable Living

Abstract

The hospitality industry produces a lot of textile waste, like bed sheets, towels, and curtains, which are often thrown away because they get worn out, stained, or outdated. This research looks for sustainable ways to recycle and reuse these materials to cut down on waste and lessen its impact on the environment. The goal is to explore recycling and upcycling methods that can turn discarded textiles into useful or decorative items. The study examines different recycling techniques, such as mechanical recycling, where fabrics are broken down into fibers, and chemical recycling, which extracts raw materials for reuse. It also looks at upcycling, which involves creatively transforming waste textiles into new products. By studying examples of hotels that have adopted recycling programs, the research identifies successful strategies and the real-world benefits of these practices. The results show that recycling can help reduce textile waste in landfills, lower carbon emissions, and save businesses money. Additionally, recycled textiles can provide new revenue opportunities. Key to success in these efforts are partnerships with recycling companies, government support through policies, and raising awareness among the public. The research concludes that the hospitality industry can adopt a closed-loop system, where waste textiles are reused in the production of new products. This approach helps reduce environmental harm and supports the industry’s commitment to sustainability. The study offers practical recommendations for hotels and other businesses to implement these practices, creating a greener, more responsible future.