Describe the Issue or Situation.

Keeping textile and fabric waste out of landfills is crucial for environmental sustainability. Textiles make up a significant portion of solid waste, with the U.S. alone discarding approximately 11 million tons of clothing and textiles annually. Fabrics, especially synthetic fibers like polyester, can take hundreds of years to decompose, releasing harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment during the process. Additionally, the textile industry is one of the largest contributors to global pollution, responsible for a substantial share of water usage, carbon emissions, and the release of toxic dyes and chemicals into water systems. By diverting textiles from landfills through recycling, repurposing, and responsible disposal, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, and mitigate the harmful impacts of textile waste on ecosystems. Emphasizing sustainable practices, such as donating, upcycling, or using textile waste for innovative applications, also helps reduce the demand for new raw materials, contributing to a more circular economy.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

To that end, the Lyon County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent offered a five month "Scrap Happy" class to educate participants about the global textile epidemic and teach small but meaningful ways to help keep scraps from quilting and sewing projects out of the landfill.  In each of the monthly meetings, students made a project that used small pieces of fabric to create a personal item that could be used by the participant or given as a gift.  Projects included zipper tote bags, wallets, eye masks, hand warmers, bookmarks, pillows, and more. Each person left with a sample, pattern, and encouragement to make more projects using the scraps they had available to them at home.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

Twelve people, coming to 5 classes each, were able to take part in the Scrap Happy series.  

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.