Garment waste has become a pressing environmental concern in Hong Kong, where the fast pace of fashion and consumerism has resulted in mountains of discarded clothing. Dr. Magnum Lam, Assistant Professor in the School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, first recognized the scale of the problem while volunteering at a clothing collection event hosted by Redress — a pioneering environmental NGO committed to transforming the fashion industry toward a circular model. “Seeing the sheer volume of discarded clothes and realizing that sorting was done entirely by hand was eye-opening,” he recalls. The experience highlighted not only the inefficiency of the current system but also the overwhelming amount of textile waste generated daily. This moment of realization inspired Dr. Lam to dedicate his research to understanding the complexities of garment waste and exploring innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.
Dr. Magnum Lam shared insights on garment waste and sustainability at the Business Sustainability Conference 2024.
Dr. Lam’s research spans both consumer behavior and the operational challenges faced by the garment recycling industry. On the consumer side, he has found that while many Hong Kong residents are willing to recycle clothing, a lack of clear guidance and knowledge often prevents effective action. “People want to do the right thing, but they don’t always know how,” he explains. His studies suggest that better education about what can and cannot be recycled, as well as clearer instructions at collection points, could significantly boost participation.
Despite these barriers, promising local efforts are underway. Government-placed collection bins have achieved high visibility and community engagement, while NGOs such as The Salvation Army, Friends of the Earth, and Redress play vital roles in redistributing clothing, supporting vulnerable communities, and raising public awareness. Dr. Lam also emphasizes the importance of learning from international examples, such as the European Union’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which require all manufacturers to participate in recycling efforts. He believes that similar policy innovations, combined with stronger industry collaboration, could help Hong Kong develop a more effective and sustainable garment recycling ecosystem. Brands like Patagonia, known for their recycling initiatives and sustainability values, also offer valuable reference points for local companies.
In March 2025, SFT joined forces with leading environmental organizations — including The Salvation Army, Friends of the Earth (HK), Redress, and The Conservancy Association — to champion campus sustainability through a collaborative clothing recycling initiative.
SFT and The Salvation Army also teamed up for an inspiring exhibition at the Fashion Gallery in March 2025, spotlighting the magic of garment sorting and recycling — transforming old clothes into new possibilities.
Ultimately, Dr. Lam underscores that the most impactful solution to garment waste begins with reducing consumption. “First, buy less. Second, reuse as much as possible. Only then should we think about recycling,” he advises. He encourages consumers to choose durable, natural materials and to care for their clothing to extend its lifespan. Reflecting on his own habits, Dr. Lam shares that he still wears a jersey from his school days, nearly 20 years old, as a reminder that clothing can last if properly cared for. “We often throw away clothes not because they’re worn out, but because we tire of their style,” he says. By combining smarter shopping habits, improved recycling systems, and stronger policy support, Dr. Lam believes Hong Kong can make meaningful progress toward a more sustainable future — one garment at a time.
