Sustainability and Circularity in the Textile Value Chain - A Global Roadmap Textile Value Chain

Abstract

Figure 1: Three priorities to deliver system change in the textile value chain SHIFTING CONSUMPTION PATTERNS Optimising design, business models and consumer behaviour IMPROVED PRACTICES \ Optimising practices and behaviour in existing sites, companies and processes INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT Investing in shared physical technology and systems The textile sector plays a key role in driving industrialization, trade, development and social value. It rapidly develops regional and global value chains by connecting producers, retailers and consumers from across the world. It is also a sector struggling to address its contributions to the triple planetary crisis on climate change, nature loss and pollution. All year, the textile sector emits 2-8% of the world's greenhouse gases, uses the equivalent of 86 million Olympic-sized swimming pools of natural water resources, and is responsible for 9% of microplastic pollution to our oceans. Additionally, the value chain has deep social impacts, with textile workers at risk of exploitation, underpayment, forced labour, health risks and abuse. Women are particularly vulnerable as they represent an average of 68% of the garment workforce, and 45% of the overall textile sector workforce. Transforming the textile value chain into one that is sustainable and circular will allow us to address these environmental and social impacts, while also supporting people, prosperity and equity. However, no single group of actors can achieve this scale of sector transformation alone, but rather it requires all stakeholders to use their resources and efforts to work together towards a common goal. In order to prioritize effective action for all stakeholders and encourage collective engagement, this report applied a systemic value chain approach. Building on research and consultations with over 140 textile value chain stakeholders, it defines a common agenda of transformation towards sustainability and circularity.