Sustainable Style: Climate Action Team Leads the Way with Biannual Clothing Exchange

At The Northwest School, sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a way of life. The Climate Action Team (CAT) exemplifies this commitment through their biannual Clothing Exchange, held each fall and spring. This event gives students an opportunity to refresh their wardrobes in a fun, sustainable way, all while reducing waste. Think of it as thrifting—but free!

How It Works

The Clothing Exchange is simple and impactful. Participants bring gently used clothes they no longer need, browse a diverse collection, and take home items they love. This cyclical system keeps clothing in use longer, minimizing waste and supporting sustainable practices.

Why Participate?

• Reduce Waste: Every item swapped is one less destined for a landfill.
  • Less than 1% of clothes are currently recycled.
  • Polyester releases microplastics when washed.
  • Textiles contribute to 35% of ocean plastics.
• Save Resources: By reusing clothes, participants help reduce demand for the resource-intensive production of new garments.
  • 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from the fashion industry.
  • 20% of the world’s clean water consumption is used for clothing production each year.
• Build Community: The exchange fosters connection as students, teachers, and families share stylish finds and sustainable practices.

A Growing Tradition

The Clothing Exchange began as a grassroots effort initiated by alumnus Josh Caplan during their junior year. Inspired by similar programs, Josh partnered with the Climate Action Team to bring the idea to Northwest. What started as an annual event has since grown into a biannual tradition.

This year, the exchange is co-led by CAT members Aviva L. and Max M., both Class of 2025. They’ve introduced exciting new elements to the program, including an educational component to raise awareness about the environmental impact of fast fashion. Fast fashion refers to the rapid production of inexpensive clothing designed to meet the latest trends, often at the expense of fair labor practices and environmental health. Through interactive activities like Kahoot quizzes during grade-level meetings, students learn about the social and ecological costs of this industry.

Skill Building and Creativity

Aviva and the team are also encouraging hands-on participation by emphasizing the importance of clothing repair and upcycling. Students with sewing skills are showcasing their talents by mending garments or creating entirely new pieces to sell at the exchange. The Climate Action Team is also considering a mending workshop to teach students how to repair and extend the life of their clothing—empowering them with skills to embrace sustainable fashion.

Measuring Success

The success of the exchange is measured in two ways: the volume of visitors and the turnover of items. A higher turnover rate—meaning most items brought in are swapped out—signals a thriving exchange. After each event, leftover items are either saved for the next exchange or donated to local charities, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

Spreading the Word

To promote the exchange, the Climate Action Team relies on email announcements, posters around campus, and word of mouth. These efforts have increased participation at each event.

Fashion for a Better Future

The Climate Action Team’s Clothing Exchange is more than an event—it’s a statement of values. By making sustainability accessible, fun, and educational, CAT is inspiring the school community to rethink their approach to fashion. Clear out your closet, find new favorites, and join the movement to make fashion sustainable—one swap at a time.