Stony Brook University has introduced updated 'Red Hot' donation bins as part of its long-standing clothing recycling program. These new bins feature enhanced signage and messaging to clarify what can be donated and explain the destination of these donations, aiming to ensure the community understands the impact of their contributions on sustainability and social welfare.
The revamped program includes scannable QR codes on the bins that direct users to the Stony Brook recycling website. "We wanted to make sure it’s clear what’s accepted and what’s not, and where the clothes are going once donated," said Facilities and Services Manager Michael Youdelman, who oversees the recycling program.
In partnership with Wearable Collections, a New York City-based waste management company that owns the campus clothing recycling bins and collects donations every two weeks, the program accepts clothing, shoes, and other textiles. This initiative aims to divert waste from landfills while giving pre-worn clothes a new life for those in need.
"Even if it’s torn, we encourage people to donate it. Clothing and fabric is a commodity, just like paper or metal. It can be repurposed into things like writing paper or even filler," Youdelman explained. He emphasized that clean items in any condition are welcome due to the environmental and social benefits of the program.
According to Wearable Collections' website, about half of the items donated are sold while the rest are recycled: "What we collect travels to a sorting facility where it is evaluated for its secondary uses. About 50% of collections will be reused as clothing and sold in secondhand markets throughout the world, providing access to affordable apparel. The rest are upcycled as rags or shredded into fiber products used for purposes like insulation, carpet padding, and mattress stuffing."
The university collects around 10 tons of material annually through this program. Efforts are underway to increase participation by educating more students, faculty, and staff about its benefits.
Plans include expanding the number of bins across campus, particularly on East Campus. "It’s free to use, and it helps keep waste out of landfills," said Youdelman. "We all have clothes we don’t use anymore, and by donating to the bins, we’re helping the environment and helping others while keeping waste out of landfills."
"It’s important for our community members to see that recycling is a core part of our culture here at Stony Brook," Youdelman added. "We embrace our students and staff, and we know that if we do our part, they’ll do theirs and carry the recycling torch forward."
— Beth Squire