Every year, an average European citizen buys 6kg of clothing, 6kg of household textiles and 3kg of shoes, and throws away 11kg of textile waste. As a result, our textile use puts a considerable burden on the environment. At the same time, the textile sector has great potential for achieving a circular economy. Especially in the field of fashion, there are many opportunities for a more sustainable and circular future. Responsible material choices, smart design, longer use and high-quality recycling can greatly reduce the environmental impact of textiles.
In a circular fashion industry, garments are made from sustainable fibers, without harmful substances. Products last longer by using quality materials and repairable designs. Re-use is encouraged and discarded items are recycled into high-quality fibres that can be reused in fashion production. This requires a radical system change in which all stakeholders in the fashion value chain play an important role.
We want to know your views on a sustainable future for the apparel industry – and it will only take 5-10 minutes of your time.
This survey is part of the Horizon Europe project SCIRT. In this research project, VITO and numerous European research institutions, producers and fashion brands join forces to build a circular and sustainable future for fashion. To learn more, visit our website at www.scirt.eu.