Landsec launches textiles recycling scheme at Westgate, Oxford

Property firm Landsec has responded to last week's call from MPs to impose a "garment tax" on the fashion industry by introducing a new clothing recycling scheme at its Westgate, Oxford shopping destination, which, if successful, it could roll out across its full estate.

From 4 March shoppers will be invited to donate items to an interactive recycling point, specifically for clothes, within the centre. The "spring clean, think green", will include various ways of incentivising customers to recycle their clothes, including weekly competitions.

The success of the scheme will be measure by the number of people using it and the total weight of the clothes donated. The stall will educate consumers on the importance of recycling textiles and will show examples of the type of garments donated materials could be turned into.

Landsec said it aimed to demonstrate that action can be taken to protect the environment, without placing the retail sector under further financial strain. Proposals under consideration by the government include a 1p tax on every garment produced to contribute towards the cost of recycling.

Ailish Christian-West, Head of Property, retail portfolio, Landsec, commented: “Michael Gove is right to be concerned about the impact fast fashion has on the environment, but now is not the time to introduce a new levy in bricks and mortar retail. Both retailers and retail landlords undoubtedly have a role to play in reducing the amount of textiles which end up incinerated or sent to landfill.

"At Landsec, we believe that through innovation and collaboration, we can make a significant and positive impact without placing an additional financial strain on the retail industry. We will be measuring the impact we have and look forward to sharing our results with the minister.”

Tom Byrne, sustainability manager, Landsec, added: “Clothing banks have existed for a number of years, but what we feel has been missing is a landlord-led initiative which can really drive up recycling rates in key retail destinations; our kiosk will bring the experience of recycling to life for customers and we’re hopeful that a less passive waste strategy will translate into greater enthusiasm for recycling textiles.”

The Landsec scheme is being operated by I:Collect, a global leader in the collection, sorting, reuse and recycling of used clothing.