Circular fashion economy, also known as circular fashion, is a sustainable approach to the fashion industry. In a circular fashion economy, the goal is to minimize waste and pollution by keeping materials in use for as long as possible. This is achieved by adopting a closed-loop system where materials are recycled and reused, instead of being discarded as waste. The circular fashion economy aims to create a zero-waste cycle, where materials are constantly repurposed, and nothing is wasted.
When did it originate?
The concept of circular fashion originated in the early 2000s as a response to the negative environmental impact of the linear fashion industry.
In the early 90s awareness of pollution, and environmental damage was raised in many industries including fashion. The Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle concept also originated during this time, people initiated wearing thrift and vintage clothes.
In the 20s as the concept of fast fashion was evolving, concerns for the environment and labor conditions were also talked about. As the years passed by and global clothing production and consumption increased more and more, sustainability and circularity started to gain traction.
According to Green Peace global clothing production doubled from 2000 to 2014.
Gradually, movements like “Slow Fashion”, “Buy Less, Choose Well” and “Who made my Clothes” gained momentum. More options for secondhand shopping, consignment stores, thrift stores, and vintage shops increased.
In recent years, circular fashion has gained significant attention, so many brands and fashion designers have started adopting sustainable practices.
Drawbacks of circular fashion
Although the circular fashion economy is a sustainable approach to the fashion industry, it also has some drawbacks.
One of the drawbacks is that it can be costly to implement. The cost of recycling, repurposing, and reusing materials can be higher than the cost of producing new materials.
Another drawback is that not all materials can be recycled, and some fabrics are difficult to recycle. In addition, the production of recycled materials can still have an impact on the environment, such as water usage and energy consumption.
Here are some points why brands find the circular economy challenging:
- Remanufacturing clothes requires great designs and technological expertise.
- Not many customers are interested in buying remanufactured products.
- Difficulty in the collection and storage of used garments.
For a brand, a long-term vision plan is required for a circular business model.
However, despite these drawbacks, the circular fashion economy is still a step towards a more sustainable fashion industry.
What do consumers need to do for a circular fashion economy?
Consumers can contribute to the circular fashion economy by adopting the following sustainable fashion practices:
Buying second-hand clothes:
shopping secondhand is a great way to find unique and affordable fashion items. Explore thrift, vintage, consignment stores, and online websites to discover pre-loved clothes. Join the movement to reduce waste and embrace sustainable fashion.
Repairing, and repurposing old clothes:
Repair, mend, or alter clothing instead of discarding them when minor issues arise. Not only will this help reduce waste, but it will also save you money in the long run. To extend the life of your garments, follow the care instructions.
Donating or recycling unwanted clothes:
Participate in clothing recycling programs, many brands have initiatives to collect old clothing for recycling. Consider renting clothes for special occasions or participating in a clothing swap with your friends. This reduces the demand for new items.
Buying clothes from brands that use sustainable materials and adopt circular fashion practices- choose brands that prioritize sustainability, transparency, and ethical practices. Look for certifications and check for information on the brand’s website regarding their commitment to the environment.
By doing this, consumers can help reduce waste and pollution in the fashion industry and support the shift towards a more sustainable and circular fashion economy.
Can Fashion truly be circular?
Now that we know what circular fashion is do we think this fashion industry, which follows fast-paced and wasteful practices genuinely becomes circular??
The concept of a circular fashion economy, where materials are constantly repurposed and nothing is wasted, is an ambitious goal. While it may not be entirely possible to achieve complete circularity in the fashion industry, it is still important to strive towards this goal. Brands can make significant progress by adopting sustainable practices, using recycled materials, and minimizing waste and pollution. Consumers can also contribute by adopting sustainable fashion practices and supporting brands that prioritize sustainability.
It’s a step in the right direction towards a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry.
