Disposal Methods of Clothing Used Globally: A Comparative Review of Developed and Emerging Economies

Abstract

The consumption of clothing in everyday life continues to rise steadily, leading to an increase in clothing waste. The disposal of such waste involves its collection, processing, recycling, or final deposition. Clothing waste is typically solid in nature and varies in composition and source. Its environmental and health impacts depend on the materials involved—some components may be hazardous, while others are relatively benign. The disposal of clothing, particularly through conventional methods, poses significant environmental challenges. This study aims to review existing research on consumer-level clothing disposal practices across various countries, identifying prevalent methods and the factors that influence them. It highlights the dominance of landfilling and incineration in emerging economies, often exacerbated by limited public awareness of sustainable alternatives. Innovative disposal practices such as upcycling and clothing swaps are gaining traction in select regions, notably India and Indonesia. However, the findings underscore a widespread need for increased awareness regarding sustainable clothing disposal. The study advocates for the promotion of eco-friendly garments that facilitate easier end-of-life processing and recommends mandatory awareness initiatives by garment manufacturers to encourage responsible consumer behavior.