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Exploring Circular Economy Practices in School Uniforms: A Study on Parental Perspectives from Australia

Author

Listed:
  • Ankita Behal

    (School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University, Brunswick Campus, Melbourne, VIC 3056, Australia)

  • Saniyat Islam

    (School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University, Brunswick Campus, Melbourne, VIC 3056, Australia)

  • Caroline Swee Lin Tan

    (School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University, Brunswick Campus, Melbourne, VIC 3056, Australia)

Abstract

The global school uniform industry, primarily driven by linear production models, significantly contributes to textile waste and environmental degradation. In Australia, over 2000 tons of school uniforms are discarded annually, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. This study explores the integration of Circular Economy (CE) principles into school uniform systems through a case study of a private school in Victoria. Using a thematic approach, the research involved a parent survey with 106 participants and a focus group with 6 parents. The study identified financial, logistical, and socio-cultural factors influencing uniform consumption and disposal behaviors. Affordability emerged as the primary motivator for adopting second-hand uniforms (86%). However, barriers such as limited sizing, hygiene concerns, quality, and social stigma hinder wider adoption. Parents also expressed dissatisfaction with the current uniform design, material breathability, and durability, particularly in warmer climates. Despite increased awareness of sustainability (61% cited environmental concerns), actionable engagement remains low due to a lack of transparency and infrastructure. The study proposes a replicable circular uniform framework based on stakeholder co-design, reverse logistics, and curriculum-based sustainability education. These findings offer practical implications for policymakers, educators, and manufacturers aiming to reduce textile waste and promote CE adoption within the education sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Ankita Behal & Saniyat Islam & Caroline Swee Lin Tan, 2025. "Exploring Circular Economy Practices in School Uniforms: A Study on Parental Perspectives from Australia," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-18, June.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:11:p:5158-:d:1671574
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Alan Murray & Keith Skene & Kathryn Haynes, 2017. "The Circular Economy: An Interdisciplinary Exploration of the Concept and Application in a Global Context," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 140(3), pages 369-380, February.
    2. Johanna Kujala & Anna Heikkinen & Hanna Lehtimäki, 2012. "Understanding the Nature of Stakeholder Relationships: An Empirical Examination of a Conflict Situation," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 109(1), pages 53-65, August.
    3. Jayson S. Jia & Xin Lu & Yun Yuan & Ge Xu & Jianmin Jia & Nicholas A. Christakis, 2020. "Population flow drives spatio-temporal distribution of COVID-19 in China," Nature, Nature, vol. 582(7812), pages 389-394, June.
    4. Emelie Hultberg & Rudrajeet Pal, 2023. "Exploring Scalability from a Triple Bottom Line Perspective: Challenges and Strategic Resources for Fashion Resale," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 3(4), pages 2201-2231, December.
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