Kent State University’s Office of Sustainability and the Women’s Center are hosting a bra drive, now through Nov. 8, to collect reusable or worn-out bras and reduce the number of textiles in landfills. Bras that are in good condition will be donated to local charities in need, and worn-out bras will be recycled.
Bras that are washed and clean can be dropped off at the Women’s Center Carriage House or at the Office of Sustainability at Suite 101 in Harbourt Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“When I saw the opportunity for the bra drive, there were a few things I liked about it,” says Melanie Knowles, sustainability manager in Kent State’s Department of Facilities Planning and Operations. “Bras are items that probably do not usually get recycled. Although textile recycling is increasing in availability, it’s still relatively rare.”
The Office of Sustainability says that 85 percent of textiles go to landfills, 95 percent of textiles can be reused or recycled and roughly half a billion bras are sold each year.
“Items of clothing that are in good condition can be sold or donated. But, it’s harder to find ways to keep worn-out items out of the landfill. So, this is an opportunity to raise awareness about that and keep some clothing out of the landfill,” says Knowles.
For more information, contact the Office of Sustainability at 330-672-8023 or Knowles at mknowle1@kent.edu.