Methuen is taking a significant step towards environmental sustainability by partnering with the non-profit organization Planet Aid Inc. to expand textile recycling in the city.
On March 1, Methuen residents began having the convenience of curbside collection for used clothing, footwear, and other textiles. This initiative aligns with Massachusetts' goal to reduce waste by 30% by 2030, following a statewide ban on textile disposal in landfills enacted in November 2022.
Mayor David P. Beauregard Jr. announced the program, emphasizing its environmental and economic benefits. The textile curbside collection will not only help reduce Methuen's trash tonnage—already decreased by 25% since 2022—but also generate revenue for the city. Under the agreement with Planet Aid, Methuen will earn 9 cents per pound of materials collected.
Residents can schedule pickups for the first and third Saturdays of each month via the Planet Aid website or by phone. Collected items will include clothing, shoes, bedding, small toys, and more. The program is free for residents and aims to maximize recycling efforts while supporting Planet Aid's mission to prevent textiles from entering the waste stream. For more details, visit the Planet Aid blog.
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