Opal and BlockTexx begin pilot program recycling paper mill workers’ uniforms

Textile recycling business BlockTexx and paper manufacturer and recycler Opal have announced a new pilot program, with “old and unused uniforms” from Opal’s Botany Mill collected and processed.

According to a statement from the paper company, the program has already seen a 660-litre container full of uniforms collected, with these to be put through BlockTexx’s recycling process.

BlockTexx has commercialised a method of processing polyester and cotton blend garments, with these materials made into pelletised PET and cellulose respectively.

“It’s fantastic to see a major manufacturer in the paper and packaging industry taking proactive steps to further reduce its waste and demonstrate leadership in sustainability,” said BlockTexx’s co-founder, Adrian Jones.

“This initiative not only helps divert textile waste from landfill but also shows how textile recycling can be an integral part of corporate responsibility.” 

Earlier this month Jones’s company earned top prize at the Banksia National Sustainability Awards, and were a Top 10 Gold Award winner in this title’s Australia’s 50 Most Innovative Manufacturers campaign in 2024.

The Environment, Testing and Management Systems Manager at Opal’s Botany Mill, Karen Jones, said the site is “one of Australia’s largest and most advanced cardboard recycling operations” and had seen processes implemented over the years to “close the loop” in its operations. 

“By partnering with BlockTexx to give our uniforms a new life, we are extending our waste reduction and recycling efforts beyond the production line,” she added.

Further reading

BlockTexx closes $7 million Series B

Fashion’s second chance: Pact and BlockTexx team up to rescue clothes from landfill

BlockTexx wins top prize at the 2025 Banksia Awards

Australian company offers the world a S.O.F.T. option for problem textiles