The purpose of this study is to identify the attitudes and perceptions regarding the international identity of the International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA) based on a survey of 2007-2008 membership. This study was conducted with the goal of providing suggestions for future strategic planning for ITAA. Results from the on-line survey revealed that an important value of the membership is that ITAA continues to function as an international organization that accommodates members from around the globe. However, the membership strongly acknowledged the need for further efforts to enhance this global entity by providing opportunities to increase awareness and sensitivity to the cultural diversity among members. The members also voiced an interest in increasing collaborations with other cultures and countries. Research findings suggest ideas for ITAA to consider as it continues to respond to the needs of its current and future global membership.
In 1994, the city of San Francisco set a goal for itself of zero waste by the year 2020. One of the top three solid waste landfill contributors not yet addressed, is textile waste, contributing 4% or 4500 pounds to landfill every hour (sfenvironment.org). Currently, consumers are asked to dispose of textiles in a clear plastic bag tied up and placed in the recycle collection bin with metal, glass, hard plastic, and clean paper. This collection system does not work. Shirts, pants, blankets and other textile products are put into the recycle bin where they are contaminated as they mix with the liquids left in discarded cans, bottles, and containers. The time is now to," shift the perception of clothing from being a disposable item to being a valuable product " (Ellen McCarthur Foundation, 2017).
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