Circular innovation in the textile and clothing industry. Business activities redefinition for a responsible value chain.

Abstract

For years the textile and clothing industry has underestimated the environmental impact of its fast and global operating, its linear “take-make-use-dispose” model makes it one of the most polluting of current times. To safeguard profitability and reputation, the industry needs to integrate respect, responsibility and sustainability in its design, operations and distribution activities. As resources are finite and pressure on the environment needs to be drastically reduced, a redefinition of the system, making the industry shift from linear to circular, is imperative.

Innovations are key for circular transition, starting from initial steps in sustainability as incremental changes on materials choice and improvements for resources optimization. Some innovations, such as the ones fostering full circularity of garments, require on one side technological advances, currently being studied, and on the other, collaborations with local governments and active involvement of users, that have to be further improved.

To enable an effective shift, a radical redefinition of customer-product relation and a rethinking of design process must happen. Adopting innovative consumption models as rental, subscription and re-commerce the clothing industry can meet current customer needs like reduced spending power and frequent outfit swipes. These collaborative consumption schemes, aim at moving from clothes ownership to clothes access, combining demand requests with a reduced environmental impact.