The City of Philadelphia will work with Retrievr to provide doorstep pickup of clothing and electronics beginning on May 26, 2020.Clothing and electronics make up an estimated ten percent of Philadelphia’s residential waste stream. By keeping these items out of the trash, Philadelphians can help the city work towards its goal of reducing waste by 90 percent by 2035. Retrievr ensures that the materials it collects are reused, recycled, or repurposed in a sustainable manner.

“On average, 85% of used clothing ends up in landfills instead of being recycled,” said Retrievr CEO Adam Becker. “We believe that people will happily recycle if you give them an easy and convenient way to do it. Philadelphians can start cleaning out their closets and storage spaces now and bag or box up their items. Then they text Retrievr to schedule their pickup—it’s that easy.” 

Pickup of clothing and small electronics is free to residents. Retrievr charges a convenience fee for larger items like TVs, microwaves, window air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. Alternatively, residents can continue to drop off larger electronics and CFC devices at sanitation convenience centers without charge.

Retrievr has enhanced its collection safety procedures to protect employees and participating residents. Collection is contactless; residents may leave items outside at their doorstep for pickup by the driver. Retrievr also follows CDC guidelines for personal protective equipment and sanitizing its trucks and warehouses while COVID-19 remains a serious public health concern.

Retrievr works with clothing and electronics brands to advertise their service to their customers and build long-term improvements to recycling and reuse. Retrievr’s service is already featured on Amazon Second Chance, Amazon’s one stop shop for customers to find easy and convenient ways to give packaging and products a second life.

“Sustainability is a top priority for Amazon around the world, and in the City of Philadelphia. Part of our commitment to customers is offering safe and convenient ways for everyone to participate in making a positive impact on the planet and our communities. We’re proud to offer Retrievr’s service to our customers in Philadelphia.,” said Kitt Karhohs, Senior Manager for Sustainability Services at Amazon.

For more information, visit retrievr.com.
Photo: City of Philadelphia (www.phila.gov)

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