Back2Basics is an up-cycle initiative dedicated to transforming waste textiles into high-quality chef aprons, which are then provided to remote Indigenous students in the central deserts of Australia. By repurposing discarded chef jackets/fabrics, Back2Basics not only reduces textile waste but also supports young aspiring chefs in communities where access to professional kitchen gear is limited.
The Beginnings
Believing that waste can be a valuable resource, our project was born as a local solution to a potential textile waste issue. When a large local employer rebranded, 600 chefs’ jackets became obsolete. These jackets were donated to our group, and after removing the logos, we launched an innovative project with multiple benefits. Instead of the business incurring disposal costs, we repurpose these textiles as an educational tool to demonstrate sustainable up-cycling practices to industry professionals, teachers, and students.
This initiative will serve as a model for future repurposing projects, transforming other discarded materials into new products. The template will be a lasting resource for schools, fostering problem-solving skills and linking school curricula to real-world challenges.
Back2Basics and Dust Up
Our team working in many remote communities sharing our passion for cooking. We participate in an annual “Dust UP” sport carnival and provide delicious meals and workshops.
There is a need for the supply of aprons for the young participants. As money is limited and best spent on food, we need an innovative solution to the problem of supplying everyone with aprons. That’s where Back2Basics comes in.
Australia’s waste crisis
Australia is facing a monumental waste crisis, with staggering amounts of plastic, e-waste, and textiles ending up in landfills or being shipped overseas. The ABC’s War on Waste program highlighted that every 10 minutes, 6000 kg of textiles and clothing are discarded in Australia.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2010 alone, half a million tonnes of leather and textiles were dumped in landfills, equating to about 23 kilograms per person. Additionally, the National Association of Charitable Recycling Organisations reports that Australia exports 88 million kilograms of discarded clothing into the global second-hand market.
Waste reduction statistics
In 2018-19, Australia generated 75.8 million tonnes of solid waste, a 10% increase from 2016-17. However, over half of this waste (38.5 million tonnes) was sent for recycling.
The proportion of waste recovered for reuse, recycling, or energy increased to 63% in 2020-21, up from 50% in 2006-07.
On a per capita basis, waste generation decreased from 3.05 tonnes per person in 2006-07 to 2.95 tonnes per person in 2020-21.
These statistics highlight the progress being made in waste reduction and the importance of innovative projects like ours in contributing to a more sustainable future.
Video on clothing and material waste recycling
Recycling Fashion: The Town Turning Waste into Clothes - BBC News
This video showcases how the town of Prato in Italy transforms old clothes into new ones, reducing waste and emissions. It's an inspiring look at sustainable fashion practices.
How Old Clothes Can Become New Clothes - Textile Recycling
This video explains the importance of textile recycling and how it works for both synthetic and natural fibers. It highlights a company that recycles old jeans into new ones using a circular business model.
The ONLY Textiles Recycling Video YOU NEED TO WATCH
This comprehensive video explores the future of textiles recycling and recovery, featuring pioneering efforts in the industry. It's a great resource for understanding the full scope of textile recycling.
