Recycle your old denim at Waltham Plaza for Earth Day

In honor of Earth Day 2026, Waltham residents can give their worn-out jeans a second life by donating them for recycling. From April 15 through April 22, shoppers can drop off old denim at the Star Market at 1070 Lexington Street as part of Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green recycling program, coordinated locally by the property management and leasing firm Wilder.

The national initiative collects denim made of at least 90 percent cotton and recycles it back to fiber form for use in building insulation, thermal packaging, pet bed inserts and other products. The effort aims to reduce textile waste and promote a more sustainable, circular economy.

Last year, Wilder properties collectively diverted more than 200 pounds of denim from landfills. This Earth Day, the company hopes to beat that record with even broader community participation.

“Sustainability is a long-term commitment for Wilder, and our shoppers play a big role in making that commitment meaningful,” said Paige Quigley, senior vice president of asset management at Wilder. “After seeing such strong engagement last year, we’re excited to continue working with Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green program to inspire our communities and make it easier for people to take part in everyday environmental action.”

Participants who bring eligible denim items to Star Market during the collection period will receive a limited-edition Earth Day tote bag while supplies last (one per person).