What is it about?
The textile and clothing industry plays a huge role in the global economy and provides millions of jobs, but it is also one of the most polluting sectors in the world. Many researchers and businesses are looking to the circular economy as a way to reduce waste, extend product lifecycles, and cut environmental impact. This study reviews 132 research papers published between 2014 and 2023 to map how circular economy research in this industry has evolved. Using bibliometrics, content analysis, and a critical problematisation approach, we found that most studies focus on sustainability-oriented innovation and the challenges of transitioning to circular systems. Nearly all assume that technology-driven circularity will automatically bring positive sustainability outcomes, an assumption that needs careful scrutiny. Our review also highlights research gaps, such as understanding disruption, rebound effects, and new innovation models that could better address environmental challenges.
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Why is it important?
The fashion industry’s environmental footprint is vast, from water use and chemical pollution to textile waste in landfills. Circular economy solutions are often presented as the answer, but without critical examination, these solutions can fall short or even have unintended consequences. By unpacking the assumptions and identifying gaps in current research, this study helps guide future work towards more realistic and impactful solutions. It also offers insights for industry leaders aiming to implement circular economy strategies that go beyond technological fixes and deliver genuine sustainability benefits.
Perspectives
I have been working on circular economy research in the textile and clothing sector for years, and this review is my attempt to take a step back and look at the bigger picture. The industry is under pressure to change, but I noticed that much of the research assumes technology alone will solve its problems. By systematically reviewing the field, I wanted to challenge this assumption and point towards areas where deeper thinking is needed, such as disruption models, rebound effects, and the role of behaviour and policy. My hope is that this work will encourage both researchers and practitioners to design circular economy strategies that are not just innovative, but also robust, equitable, and truly sustainable.
Dr Krish Saha
Birmingham City University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: A comprehensive review of circular economy research in the textile and clothing industry, Journal of Cleaner Production, March 2024, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.141252.
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