Clothes Swap at the European Commission Representation in Lithuania: A Step Towards Reducing Textile Waste

On June 2, Ambassador Inga Labutytė Atkočaitienė organized another successful clothes swap event at the European Commission Representation in Lithuania. This initiative is part of the wider #ForOurPlanet campaign and the European Climate Pact, both aiming to raise awareness about sustainable living and encourage actions to combat climate change.

Inga, a passionate climate activist and journalist, has been organizing clothes swaps regularly to help reduce textile waste – one of the biggest environmental challenges today. She has voluntarily given up owning a car, flying, having children, and eating meat, dedicating her life to promoting sustainable choices and climate action.

During the event, participants brought their gently used clothes to swap, giving new life to items that might otherwise end up in landfills. Inga emphasizes that reducing textile waste starts long before the swap: "The best first step is to rethink our consumption habits—buy less, choose quality, and only when really needed."

She encourages people to get creative with what they already own: repair damaged clothes, alter their design, or decorate them to make them feel new again. "Swapping, repairing, upcycling—all these actions together help us slow down the harmful cycle of fast fashion and reduce our carbon footprint," Inga explains.

For those looking to take the challenge further, Inga suggests trying a no-clothes-buying challenge for six months or even a year. "Many realize we don’t actually need as many clothes as we think. It’s an eye-opener and a powerful way to support the planet."

Tips to Reduce Textile Waste:

1. Buy less, choose quality: Focus on durable and timeless pieces.
2. Swap instead of buy: Organize or join clothes swaps.
3. Repair and upcycle: Learn simple sewing skills or creative ways to refresh old clothes.
4. Donate responsibly: Give clothes a second life through donations or resale platforms.
5. Support sustainable brands: Choose companies with transparent, eco-friendly practices.
6. Care for clothes: Proper washing and storage extend the life of garments.

This event adds to the growing movement inspired by the European Climate Pact and the #ForOurPlanet campaign, uniting citizens and communities across Europe to act on climate change through accessible, everyday actions.