Circular Economy in the Textile Industry: Challenges and Technological Solutions

Abstract

The textile industry is one of the largest contributors to global waste, water pollution, and carbon emissions. Traditional linear production models—produce, use, discard—generate significant environmental and social challenges. Adopting circular economy (CE) principles in textiles can mitigate these impacts by promoting resource efficiency, recycling, reuse, sustainable design, and technological innovation. This research explores the challenges faced by the textile sector in implementing circular practices, examines technological solutions such as recycling fibers, digital tracking, and closed-loop systems, and analyzes best practices from global case studies. Using surveys of 50 textile firms and interviews with 20 sustainability managers and R&D experts, the study identifies barriers, drivers, and effective strategies for CE adoption. Findings indicate that technological innovation, regulatory support, and consumer awareness are critical enablers for transitioning toward a circular textile economy.