Delhi, a city known for its energy, culture, and diversity, also carries the weight of being one of India’s fastest-growing urban hubs. With rapid growth comes increasing consumption—and unfortunately, increasing textile waste. Every season, thousands of kilograms of clothes end up in landfills, even though most of them could be reused, upcycled, or recycled.
But there’s good news: Delhi is emerging as a leader in clothes donation, recycling, and circular fashion initiatives, thanks to conscious citizens and NGOs who are working tirelessly to give discarded clothes a second life.
Now Delhi Is Changing the Game
Delhi is home to several innovative organizations and citizen-led movements that make it easier than ever to donate or recycle clothes responsibly.
1. Goonj
One of India’s most respected NGOs, Goonj has transformed clothing donation into a structured, dignified process.
- They run “Cloth for Work” initiatives where donated clothes support rural development activities.
- They accept clothing, shoes, household fabric, toys, and more.
- Their drop-off centers are conveniently located across Delhi NCR.
Please check drop-off centers at this link https://goonj.org/dropping-centres/
2. Uday Foundation
Uday Foundation, a well-known charitable organization based in Delhi. Uday Foundation supports underprivileged children, patients, and families in need by distributing donated essentials throughout the year. They accept all kinds of wearable summer and winter clothes for both children and adults. You can drop your contributions at their collection centre located at D-233, Sarvodaya Enclave, New Delhi – 110017. Your small act of kindness can bring warmth, comfort, and dignity to someone who truly needs it.
For more information visit https://www.udayfoundation.org/delhi-donate-old-clothes/
3. Navjeevan Vihar Zero Waste Colony
Navjeevan Vihar, a small yet forward-thinking colony in South Delhi, has emerged as one of the city’s proud zero-waste communities. Through disciplined waste segregation, composting, and strong resident participation, the colony has drastically reduced the amount of garbage sent to landfills. One of its thoughtful initiatives includes collecting old clothes—but in limited numbers—to ensure only usable, good-quality items are passed on responsibly. By focusing on mindful donation, sustainable habits, and community-led action, Navjeevan Vihar has set a powerful example of how urban neighborhoods can move toward cleaner, greener, and zero-waste living.
Navjeevan Vihar RRR Center – Delhi
Colony Entry Gate No 1 – 24×7 Drop Off
Contact: Montu: +91 95609 16712
Why Waste Wednesdays Foundation (WWWF) is a women-led Section 8 non-profit organization, established in 2021, with a mission to address pressing environmental challenges through innovative and impactful solutions. Guided by the principles of sustainability and inclusivity, WWWF works at the grassroots level to promote eco-conscious practices and empower communities, particularly women and youth, to take ownership of environmental conservation.
For more information visit https://www.whywastewednesdays.com/
3. Zero Foundation
Zero Foundation in Uttam Nagar provides a responsible way to recycle your used clothes and undergarments—just make sure they’re freshly washed before dropping them off. They ensure proper sorting and recycling with dignity. You can also donate your used or new books for ages 6 and above, all the way up to post-graduation, helping support education for those who need it most.
A-61, Second Floor, Auto Market, Dal Mill Road, Opposite Metro Pillar Number 685, Uttam Nagar West Metro Station, New Delhi – 110059.
Contact: Ajay Mehra: +91-99119-97171
Do you also have clothes recycling or drop-off centers in Delhi NCR. Please WhatsApp your details to Puneet Verma at +919910162399 or missiongreendelhi@gmail.com.
