Zero Waste Europe identifies ‘key’ business criteria
Brussels-based non-governmental network Zero Waste Europe has issued four “key” recommendations for developing “a virtuous business model [for textiles] that goes beyond circularity” in a report published January 17.
The authors of the document, titled Beyond circular fashion – a new business model for the fashion industry, based their findings on observations of local best practice, emphasising sustainability, fairness and zero waste.
They suggest integrating all four criteria at once, but also caution that “there is not much literature, let alone consensus” on the topic, given the "novelty" of circularity-minded businesses in today's market.
Nevertheless, the authors recommend that commercial entities should model themselves after four essential pillars: designing for physical and emotional durability (ie, creating fashions able to withstand frequent use and washing, and that are less trend-led and more easily modifiable); implementing demand-driven production, to “phase out” unsold stocks and discounting; pursuing full supply chain transparency and traceability, including post-sale; and working to extend a product’s use phase beyond primary ownership.
The report concludes with a call for more research, particularly regarding financial implications, carbon budget, the links between fast fashion business models and biodiversity loss, and how new policies could facilitate change, although next steps should not only be legislative, its authors said.
Find the full report here.
