Shaping the Future of Textiles Through a Circular Economy
The textile industry, unfortunately, ranks as the second most environmentally impactful sector.
For many years, the dominant linear fashion economy has been based on a take make use dispose model. However, it is now clear that this model is unsustainable.
For the future of both the industry and our planet, the circular economy is not just an alternative it is an inevitable necessity.
The circular economy approach requires a multilayered transformation spanning from design and production to retail, consumption, post-use revaluation, and recycling processes.
This transformation should not be limited to producers and consumers alone. It must be implemented within a systematic structure—supported by legislation, NGOs, educational content, and individual awareness.
DESIGN
It is now essential for designers to think with a circular systems mindset. Products must be designed to generate minimal waste, use fewer resources, and have a long lifespan throughout their entire life cycle.
During the design process, the following questions should be considered:
- How can it be produced using the least amount of resources?
- Is it possible to reduce the use of chemicals, water, and energy?
- How can we extend the product’s lifespan?
- How can the product be recovered after use?
In this context, new design strategies are coming to the forefront such as timeless and high quality designs, zero waste patterns, easily disassembled constructions, 3D digital prototyping, and upcycling applications.
MATERIAL SELECTION
A significant portion of textile waste stems from material choices. Therefore, materials that are reusable or easily recyclable should be prioritized in the selection process.
The use of mono-materials (single-component fabrics) facilitates recycling processes.
In addition to recycled materials such as cotton and wool, it is important to consider whether those materials can be recycled again in the future.
Biodegradable materials, as well as natural fibers like linen and hemp which require less water and fewer chemicals are also gaining prominence.
Throughout these processes, certification systems, ethical production methods, and transparency principles must be foundational.
For dyeing and finishing treatments, industrial natural dyeing, bio-based dyes, and water-saving nanotechnologies (such as airdye and solution dye) should be preferred.
Furthermore, industrial symbiosis systems where the waste of one industry becomes the raw material of another are shaping the future of the materials ecosystem.
Innovative materials such as Orange Fiber (from orange peels), Piñatex (from pineapple leaves), and Apple Leather (from apple peels) are prime examples of this approach.
PRODUCTION
The goal of production processes should be to establish systems that minimize waste and utilize resources efficiently.
In particular, filtering and reusing wastewater in dyeing processes is critically important for water conservation.
Systematizing recycling infrastructures in industrial zones, approaching waste management collectively, and planning production based on actual demand are fundamental steps toward sustainability.
Additionally, promoting local manufacturing directly contributes to reducing the carbon footprint.
RETAIL
As one of the leading brands in circular fashion, Patagonia made a bold statement against consumer culture with its slogan “Don’t buy this jacket.”
The future of retail is being shaped by transparency, conscious production, and the establishment of sustainable relationships with consumers.
Innovative practices such as augmented reality (AR)-powered virtual fitting rooms and QR code tags providing detailed product information are significant steps toward raising consumer awareness.
Additionally, in store recycling bins and garment repair/upcycling workshops have become integral parts of the circular fashion system.
REUSE AND SECOND-HAND SALES
According to GlobalData, second-hand clothing sales are expected to reach $230 billion globally by 2025, with projections indicating this figure will exceed $350 billion by 2028.
This growth is largely driven by the environmental awareness of Gen Z and Millennials, their preference for more affordable options due to economic reasons, and the increasing adoption of circular consumption habits.
SMART TEXTILES AND CIRCULARITY
“The textiles of the future must be not only smart, but also conscious.”
Innovative textiles that adapt to changing climate conditions are shaping the industry when aligned with the vision of circular fashion.
Examples include:
- Ultra-light running jackets that collect sunlight during the day and emit light at night
- Seamless, zero-waste, and fully recyclable garments produced with 4D knitting technology
- Mono-material knits with built in bounce and no need for foam (such as the “No Foam Knit” project)
Additionally, developments such as lab grown, mushroom based bioplastics and microorganism-derived, chemical-free dyeing techniques are revolutionizing the textile industry.
THE ROLE OF CULTURAL HERITAGE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP
In future-oriented projections, craftsmanship, handwoven textiles, upcycled products, and details highlighting women’s labor are becoming increasingly prominent.
At this point, Türkiye holds significant potential with its deep rooted weaving and craft traditions:
Our heritage in natural dyeing, Ahimsa silk from Hatay produced without harming silkworms, Kutnu fabric from Gaziantep, Şile cloth from Istanbul, Gılamık weaving from Antalya, Tırnak Bağı technique from Kastamonu, and the richly diverse silk weavings of Bursa these are just a few examples of invaluable cultural assets.
The circular economy reminds us that the key to the future lies in remembering and preserving the values that have always existed in our past.
IN CONCLUSION…
A circular textile and fashion economy is a holistic system that aims to eliminate waste at every stage from design to production, and from use to post use while remaining in harmony with nature.
This system not only protects the environment but also honors the artisan, the designer, the consumer, and all stakeholders offering a value driven vision for the future rooted in innovation, ethics, and human dignity.