Taipei partners with Wacoal Taiwan to expand textile recycling, encouraging circular economy practices through in-store collection of used garments.
The Taipei City Department of Environmental Protection is partnering with Wacoal Taiwan to promote textile recycling and waste reduction. From September 1 to October 31, about 87 designated Wacoal stores will collect used women’s underwear, expanding recycling options and promoting a circular economy.
The department said usable textiles can be reused to extend their life cycle, while worn-out items can be recycled into materials or used for energy recovery. The campaign adds participating company stores to Taipei’s existing used-clothing collection bins and recycling trucks.
During the campaign, residents can wash eligible used underwear, bag it and take it to participating Wacoal stores. Every two items can be exchanged for one 60ml bottle of hand-washing detergent for intimate apparel. A total of 5,000 bottles will be available, with 2,500 per month, while supplies last. No membership is required. Wacoal members can also receive a NT$100 discount voucher.
The department reminds residents that underwear with obvious wear, loose or wrinkled cups, slipping straps, lost elasticity, thinning fabric or deformed underwires that affect wearability can be recycled.
The department said resource circulation begins with making better use of everyday items. The partnership with Wacoal expands textile collection channels and encourages businesses to support a circular economy and environmental sustainability.