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Fundamental Challenges and Opportunities for Textile Circularity

Author

Listed:
  • Kedron Thomas

    (Department of Anthropology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA)

  • Hira Durrani

    (Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Minnesota Duluth, Duluth, MN 55812, USA)

  • Julia Brady

    (Department of Anthropology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA)

  • Kendall Ludwig

    (Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA)

  • Michelle Yatvitskiy

    (Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA)

  • Abigail R. Clarke-Sather

    (Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Minnesota Duluth, Duluth, MN 55812, USA)

  • Huantian Cao

    (Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA)

  • Kelly Cobb

    (Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA)

Abstract

The negative environmental impacts of the current linear system of textile and apparel production are well-documented and require urgent action. The sector lacks an effective recycling system, resulting in massive waste and environmental pollution. This paper presents the results of qualitative research involving textile and apparel industry stakeholders, including representatives from brands and retailers, waste collectors, recyclers, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and government agencies. Our research focused on stakeholder perceptions of the significance and importance of textile circularity, the challenges that exist for transitioning the textile and apparel industry from a linear system to a circular economy (CE), and resources that exist to support this transition. The results of this study call attention to the following urgent requirements: a consistent definition of CE to promote transparency and accountability and prevent greenwashing; improved systems for materials identification, sorting, and pre-processing of post-consumer textile waste to enable recycling; innovations in mechanical recycling technologies to maintain the value of recycled materials; and new, materials-driven approaches to design and manufacturing that are responsive to feedstock variability and diverse consumer needs. The research findings also suggest the need for flexible, regional CEs that are rooted in community partnerships.

Suggested Citation

  • Kedron Thomas & Hira Durrani & Julia Brady & Kendall Ludwig & Michelle Yatvitskiy & Abigail R. Clarke-Sather & Huantian Cao & Kelly Cobb, 2024. "Fundamental Challenges and Opportunities for Textile Circularity," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-17, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:24:p:11117-:d:1546934
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. George R. G. Clarke, 2019. "From the Editor," The International Trade Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(5), pages 383-384, September.
    2. Simina Teodora Hora & Constantin Bungau & Paul Andrei Negru & Andrei-Flavius Radu, 2023. "Implementing Circular Economy Elements in the Textile Industry: A Bibliometric Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(20), pages 1-24, October.
    3. George R.G. Clarke, 2019. "From the editor," The International Trade Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(1), pages 1-4, January.
    4. George R. G. Clarke, 2019. "From the Editor," The International Trade Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(4), pages 303-304, July.
    5. Kirchherr, Julian & Reike, Denise & Hekkert, Marko, 2017. "Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 127(C), pages 221-232.
    6. George R. G. Clarke, 2019. "From the Editor," The International Trade Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(6), pages 493-494, November.
    7. George R. G. Clarke, 2019. "From the Editor," The International Trade Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(3), pages 219-220, May.
    8. Huantian Cao & Kendall Ludwig & Kelly Cobb & Carmyia Scott & Yan Jin & Bridget Knight & Mary Burrichter & Hongqing Shen, 2024. "Development and Evaluation of Biodegradable Weed Control Mulch Mats from End-of-Use Cotton Waste," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(16), pages 1-17, August.
    9. George R. G. Clarke, 2019. "From the editor," The International Trade Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 33(2), pages 137-138, March.
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    Cited by:

    1. Gustav Sandin & Matilda Lidfeldt & Maja Nellström, 2025. "Exploring the Environmental Impact of Textile Recycling in Europe: A Consequential Life Cycle Assessment," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(5), pages 1-24, February.
    2. Cristian D. Palma & Priscilla Cabello-Avilez, 2025. "Towards a Circular Fashion Future: A Textile Revalorization Model Combining Public and Expert Insights from Chile," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-17, September.

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