The Narrative of Circular Economy and Sustainability -A Critical Analysis of Fashion Industry

Amidst growing environmental concerns, the fashion industry faces a pivotal moment marked by its substantial ecological footprint. This study delves into the intersection of circular economy (CE) and sustainable development (SD) within the fashion industry, emphasizing the urgent need for change. The research aims to identify implementation challenges while highlighting the timeliness of shifting towards sustainable fashion practices.

This research employs a comprehensive methodology, incorporating both a systematic literature review (SLR) followed by real-world case studies. An extensive search was conducted across pertinent journals from 2010 to 2022 using Scopus, with keywords related to circular economy, sustainable development, and the fashion industry. Furthermore, eight secondary case studies were purposively selected and analysed.

Circular economy principles offer a promising avenue for advancing fashion sustainability. However, hurdles persist, including complex supply chains, mixed fabric recycling, inadequate infrastructure, and the lack of industry standards. Overcoming these challenges necessitates systemic changes, collaborative efforts, and technological investments. Nevertheless, embracing circularity presents valuable opportunities for enhancing resource efficiency and cultivating a socially and environmentally conscious fashion industry.

This study highlights the pressing need for a profound transformation within the fashion industry to mitigate its environmental impact. By adopting circular economy principles, the industry can significantly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Achieving this, however, requires substantial shifts in business models and industry practices.

The research stands out for its comprehensive approach, integrating a systematic literature review with real-world case studies. By analysing a diverse array of journals and cases spanning nearly a decade, it offers a comprehensive understanding of the current state of circular economy adoption within the fashion sector.