The textile industry is ill-famous for the copious amount of waste it generates in every stage, even after they are consumed. By end of 2050, the textile industry will account for 50% of carbon emissions in the world. It is mostly a linear industry where we follow a make-use-throw pattern. While 90% of textiles are recyclable only a few are even reclaimed. Little thought is gone into making fashion into an eco-friendly business. It is imperative to create a circular economy in the textile sector. While we have to obviously repair and refurbish products, we also need to upcycle and create the best out of textile waste.

Textile waste can be reintegrated to loop with a dab of creativity. Doodlage is a brand in India that has successfully executed this. They take pre-consumer textile waste and convert it into fabrics. the biggest hurdle for this could be the doubtful consumer. They are reluctant to get into buying products made out of “waste”. The stigma needs to be done away with thorough cleaning and sanitization of the products. In a country like India where hand-me-downs are part and parcel of family bonding, taking that to a larger scheme is quite beneficial. However, there is a surging demand for buying sustainable products, and brands can bank on that.

People can do small-scale projects based on their personal apparel. Denim can be converted into bags or pouches. Cushion covers and fillings can be made from shreds of old clothing. Rather than buying new doormats, one can easily plait or weave old cotton t-shirts into mats. Buying a frame loom that needs only minimum investment can make this job easier. Loop strips of fabrics across frame looms.

Perhaps pandemic has given us a good opportunity to put our creative thoughts into a process. This pandemic is also a grim reminder of how to live lightly and prevent any harm to the earth.

Courtesy - Image courtesy: Jazmin Quaynor