Yodomo – Crafting a circular future
When I first started incorporating fabric into my crafts, I approached each purchase with caution. I knew, in the abstract, about the waste generated by the textile and fashion industries, but my understanding was limited. Then I discovered Yodomo, and everything changed.
The first time I volunteered at Yodomo's Textile Hub, I was overwhelmed. The sheer volume of material discarded by the textile industry hit me like a wave. What I once thought was the tip of the iceberg turned out to be far larger than I had imagined. Seeing mountains of fabric destined for incineration was a stark wake-up call. It wasn’t just about waste—it was about the environmental and social impact of our consumption patterns.
At its core, Yodomo is a research and innovation lab focused on textile reuse, and its mission resonates deeply with me. They partner with industries to reduce waste and redistribute surplus textiles to a growing community of makers. These discarded materials, once labeled as "waste," are transformed into valuable products by creative hands, breathing new life into what would otherwise be landfill fodder.
What Yodomo taught me
My involvement with Yodomo has been transformative. It has allowed me to:
- Understand industry practices: Yodomo opened my eyes to how deeply flawed our textile system is and the urgent need for circular solutions.
- Educate myself and others: Through their work, I’ve learned so much about sustainable practices, and I’m now passionate about sharing this knowledge with others.
- Access affordable, high-quality materials: I’ve been able to buy beautiful fabrics at low costs—materials that would have otherwise been destroyed.
- Support a circular economy: By participating, I’m contributing to a system that values reuse and sustainability over waste and excess.
Fighting for our future
Unfortunately, fighting for a better future for our planet often feels like a luxury. The costs involved in collecting, storing, and redistributing these materials are significant, requiring dedication and financial resources. But initiatives like Yodomo are proof that change is possible when communities and industries come together with a shared purpose.
Yodomo's work aligns with critical global goals, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3) and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12). By fostering creativity and supporting makers, they are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
A Call to Action
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to watch the documentary Buy Now! The shopping conspiracy on Netflix. It offers a sobering glimpse into the impact of consumerism on our planet and underscores the importance of initiatives like Yodomo.
If you’re inspired by their mission and want to contribute, consider volunteering at Yodomo's Textile Hub. It’s an eye-opening and rewarding experience that connects you with like-minded individuals striving to make a difference.
As I reflect on my journey with fabric and craft, I’m more committed than ever to supporting initiatives that genuinely care for our planet. At The Oakum, every stitch is a step toward sustainability, and partnerships like Yodomo remind us why it matters so much.
Let’s craft a better future—together.
