Circular economy principles and the use of sustainable raw materials in textile industry

The textile industry is one of the most resource-intensive sectors, consuming large amounts of water, energy, and chemicals while generating significant pollution and waste. To address these challenges, the sector is transitioning from a traditional linear model to a circular economy, which aims to keep materials in use for longer, reduce waste, and improve resource efficiency.

This module introduces the core principles of circular economy and explores how circularity indicators and tools—such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Material Flow Analysis (MFA)—are used to measure sustainability performance. Students will examine a wide range of sustainable raw materials, including plant-based fibers (hemp, flax, jute), animal and fungal fibers (wool, silk, mycelium), and emerging bio-based synthetics (Lyocell, PLA, PHA). Natural dyeing processes from plant, mineral, microbial, and animal sources are also addressed.

The module further explores circular design strategies driving the sustainable transformation of the textile sector, such as life extension, repairability, recyclability, take-back systems, and the use of renewable or waste-derived materials. It highlights the importance of collaboration between brands, manufacturers, researchers, and policymakers in scaling circular innovation.

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By the end of the module, learners will be able to:

• Explain the principles of the circular economy and apply them to textile production, consumption, and waste management.
• Identify and compare sustainable raw materials and assess their environmental and socio-economic impacts across the value chain.
• Use circularity indicators (LCA, MFA, reduction metrics) to evaluate the sustainability performance of textile fibers, dyes, and products.
• Analyse emerging trends and circular business models in the textile industry, including design for disassembly, take-back systems, and bio-based innovation.

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