Lately, the apparel industry has been bewitched with the vivacity of ideas like circularity, nature-based fibres, bio-materials and so on. My fellow journalist pointed out last week “we are a long way off” while sharing her qualms on textile waste.

But, the future is not all that dark and bleak for the world of fashion.

Brands and retailers are stepping up and collaboration is the new way forward to realign the industry’s priority. Renewed partnerships like those between Birla Cellulose and Nanollose are researching to develop eco-friendly fibres.

Keeping up with the bid to make one of the most polluting industries circular, Japanese textile producer Toyoshima & Co is investing in FyberX to support the industrial-scale US production of its regenerative hemp fibre – another example of the collective efforts towards using natural fibres over chemical raw materials.

Ventile has also incorporated Nordshield’s nature-based fabric technology as part of its ongoing sustainability initiative. The resultant garments, as Nordshield says, are biodegradable, sustainably produced, and free of heavy metals.

The industry is glaring at the irrevocable past and stepping forward with caution. Believe it or not, making the world of apparel circular begins in the field – how the raw material is grown has a significant impact on its surrounding environment.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Inditex, the owner of Zara, recently signed an EUR15m agreement with non-profit Conservation International to expand and scale work around regenerative agricultural systems.

With such instances proving that change is not far away, I believe it comes down to the consumers and brands alike taking responsibility and driving this ‘circular’ revolution together.

We will have to bear in mind that circularity cannot be achieved in a day, however, it is also not a distant dream.

Here is more news on the subject:

Crystal International denim range with natural dyeing technique makes debut

The Vibrant Denim Collection by Crystal International utilises natural mineral powders to dye denim.

Allbirds announce net zero carbon footwear

The American footwear and apparel retailer has made the shoe with sustainable wool, foam, bioplastic and packaging.

Haelixa joins the Denim Deal to push for circularity

The traceability solutions company based in Switzerland, Haelixa, has joined the international collaboration of more than 50 companies united to produce denim more circularly.

Glen Raven phases out PFAS across global portfolio

As part of its continued commitment towards sustainability and transparency, Glen Raven is phasing out PFAS (Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances) chemicals across its global fabric portfolio.

EU Commission draft proposals for greenwashing crackdown published

The European Commission has now published its proposal for clamping down on misleading environmental claims or “greenwashing”.

Cone Denim establishes certified recycled cotton supply chain

The American denim specialist’s new certified supply chain is based in Mexico and has a Recycled Claim Standard certification.

Fashion brands back comprehensive EU ban on PFAS

Fashion brands including H&M, Bestseller, Inditex and Levi Strauss are amongst 108 companies backing a comprehensive ban on PFAS chemicals across Europe.

WRAP recommends EPR scheme for UK fashion sector

Climate action NGO WRAP has recommended the UK Government introduce an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for the country’s fashion and textiles industry.