The Pan African Association of Recycling and Secondhand Textiles (PARST) is a continental, membership-based professional association committed to strengthening Africa’s recycling, textile recovery and secondhand clothing sectors.
PARST promotes responsible textile reuse, upcycling, recycling and renewal as practical pathways for reducing waste, protecting the environment, creating employment and supporting inclusive economic development. The Association works to build professional capacity, encourage knowledge sharing, promote industry best practices and support evidence-based policies for a sustainable and circular textile economy across Africa.
Reuse • Upcycle • Recycle • Renew
Who We Are
PARST brings together individuals, businesses, industry associations, recyclers, secondhand textile traders, manufacturers, researchers, policymakers, development partners, civil society organisations and environmental professionals with a shared commitment to sustainable textile management.
We provide a continental platform through which stakeholders can exchange knowledge, develop partnerships, strengthen professional standards and collectively address the environmental, social and economic challenges facing Africa’s textile sector.
PARST recognises that used textiles are not merely waste. When properly collected, sorted, repaired, reused, repurposed and recycled, they become valuable resources capable of supporting livelihoods, conserving natural resources and contributing to Africa’s transition towards a circular economy.
Our Purpose
PARST exists to transform the way textiles are produced, consumed, reused and managed across Africa. We seek to reduce textile waste while ensuring that recycling and secondhand textile activities contribute positively to communities, businesses and the environment.
Through collaboration, advocacy, research, education and professional development, PARST works to create an industry that is:
- Environmentally responsible
- Economically viable
- Socially inclusive
- Professionally regulated
- Innovative and resilient
Supportive of decent work and entrepreneurship
Why Textile Recycling Matters
Textile recycling provides an opportunity to address waste while creating economic and social value. Through collection, repair, reuse, repurposing and fibre recovery, textiles can remain in productive use for longer periods.
A stronger textile recycling sector can contribute to:
- Reduced pressure on landfills
- Lower levels of uncontrolled textile disposal
- Conservation of water, energy and raw materials
- Reduced environmental pollution
- Green employment and entrepreneurship
- Affordable clothing for households
- Skills development and industrial innovation
- Stronger and more resilient local economies
PARST therefore promotes textile recycling not only as an environmental intervention but also as an important strategy for sustainable industrialisation, poverty reduction and inclusive development.
Emerging Leaders Development
PARST is committed to preparing the next generation of professionals to lead Africa’s circular economy and sustainable textile sectors.
Through its Emerging Leaders Development Programme, the Association provides leadership development, mentorship, networking and exposure to industry practices for young professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs and emerging managers.
Our Commitment to Africa
PARST believes that Africa’s textile challenges can be transformed into opportunities through innovation, collaboration and responsible action.
By supporting reuse, upcycling, recycling and renewal, we can reduce environmental harm, create sustainable businesses, strengthen communities and build a textile economy that benefits both present and future generations.
Join the Movement
Become part of a continental network working to advance responsible textile management and sustainable development.
Together, we can transform textile waste into opportunity and build a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous Africa.
Reuse • Upcycle • Recycle • Renew