ENVR 120 Consolidating the Clothing Pantry on Campus (2025)

Our project proposes to improve the clothing pantry situation at SUNY Potsdam to address two key issues: student financial hardship and textile waste. With many full-time students earning less than $4,000 annually and contributing to global textile waste—estimated at 92 million tons per year—the need for accessible, sustainable clothing solutions is urgent. Building on existing efforts like the professional clothing closet and student-run thrift spaces, our proposal aims to create a centrally located, well-organized clothing pantry. It would collect donations from the campus and wider community, sort items by size and type, and distribute them for free or at low cost. Ultimately, the clothing pantry will reduce waste, support student needs, and foster a culture of sustainability and mutual aid on campus.