Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles Association: About Us

About Us

Secondary Materials And Recycled Textiles (SMART) Association
The Association of Wiping Materials, Used Clothing and Fiber Industries Since 1932

As an international trade association, SMART strengthens the economic opportunities of our diverse membership by promoting the interdependence of our industry segments and providing a common forum for networking, education and trade. Since 1932, SMART has been at the forefront of recycling. SMART members use and convert recycled and secondary materials from used clothing, commercial laundries and nonwoven, off spec material, new mill ends and paper from around the world. SMART member companies create thousands of jobs worldwide. Our members prove each day that you can make money by being socially responsible.

A Short History

Founded in 1932, the Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles Association is composed of companies from the United States, Canada, Mexico, South and Central America, Europe, Asia, and Pacific Rim countries who are involved in every phase of our industry.

These companies are involved with the grading and sorting of mixed post consumer textiles for the wiping materials and used clothing markets. Some are manufacturers and converters of nonwoven and paper products; sorters and distributors of new textile products and byproducts; manufacturers of textiles and many other types of companies. Still others deal in mill ends, remnants, fibers and related materials. All realize the benefits of being a part of an international trade association dedicated to serving and promoting this dynamic industry.

The Vision

SMART members reduce solid waste by reclaiming, converting, and recycling textiles and secondary materials. As an international trade association, SMART strengthens the economic opportunities of our diverse membership by promoting the interdependence of our industry segments and providing a common forum for networking, education, and trade.