International Zero Waste Day: Our Six Top Tips to Cut Waste
The United Nations’ International Day of Zero Waste on March 30 is shining a spotlight on one of the most pressing sustainability challenges: fashion waste. With the rapid rise in clothing production and consumption far outpacing sustainability efforts, the environmental impact is severe.
Our Founder, Shanya Supparisiritad shares six practical tips to help minimise waste and embrace a circular fashion approach.
1. Buy Less, Choose Quality
"Prioritising fewer, high-quality garments that are built to last reduces the need for frequent replacements and significantly cuts down on textile waste," says Suppasiritad.
Opt for timeless or classic pieces that will stay in your wardrobe for years to come. Quality doesn’t necessarily mean expensive—natural fibers tend to last longer and are better for the environment. Look for details like well-made buttons and zippers as indicators of durability.
2. Extend the Life of Your Clothes
Simple actions such as mending small tears, replacing buttons, or repairing hems can significantly prolong a garment’s lifespan. Many dry cleaners offer repair services, and local "repair cafes"—often listed on council sustainability pages—provide free clothing fixes.
Proper care is crucial, too. Follow washing instructions carefully, air-dry instead of machine-drying, and avoid over-washing to preserve color and fabric integrity.
3. Rent Instead of Buying New
"Clothing rental services provide access to a variety of styles and designer pieces without the commitment of ownership," says Suppasiritad.
For special occasions like weddings or formal events, renting is a sustainable and cost-effective alternative. Through Rntr., consumers save up to 75% off the recommended retail price (RRP) by renting rather than purchasing. Given that Australians buy 54 new garments per person annually, yet 60% of these end up in landfill within a year, renting is a powerful way to reduce waste and microplastic pollution.
One Australian brand leading the charge is Lovaan Studios. Founder Ana Pipcorn explains, "Our partnership with Rntr. empowers us to foster a circular and sharing economy while increasing accessibility for our community."
4. Repurpose and Upcycle
Instead of discarding old clothing, get creative! Repurpose garments into tote bags, cleaning rags, or even quilts. Upcycling—adding new buttons, lace, or altering designs—can breathe new life into worn-out pieces and make them uniquely yours.
5. Shop Second-Hand & Swap Clothes
Vintage shops, thrift stores, and online resale platforms offer stylish second-hand options at a fraction of the cost. Clothing swaps—whether with friends or community groups—are another fantastic way to refresh your wardrobe without contributing to waste. Assembly Label has just launched an updated version of their take-back and resale program, ‘Re-Worn,’ powered by Rntr. "Shopping second-hand allows consumers to afford higher-end brands while reducing the demand for new production," Suppasiritad adds.
6. Choose Sustainable Brands
Becoming a conscious consumer starts with asking the right questions: Where are your clothes made? Who made them? How sustainable are the materials?
Support brands that prioritize ethical manufacturing, circular fashion (rental, resale, and take-back programs), and sustainability certifications like Fair Trade, Good on You, or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard). Brands like Lovaan Studios and Assembly Label are leading examples—offering rental and take-back programs while minimizing overproduction.
Reducing fashion waste isn’t about giving up style—it’s about making smarter choices that benefit both your wardrobe and the planet. By adopting these six tips, you can help curb textile waste, cut down on emissions, and play a part in a more sustainable fashion future.
Start small, and remember: every step towards circular fashion makes a difference!
