UK Circular Fashion Progress Report Highlights Milestone in Sustainable Transition

The Circular Fashion Innovation Network has released an interim report that assesses the UK’s advancements in circular fashion, marking a critical step toward a sustainable future in the fashion industry. This report evaluates key initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting a circular model in the fashion supply chain.

The fashion industry, particularly in the UK, has faced long-standing sustainability challenges. The European Union reports that its member states generate approximately 12.6 million tonnes of textile waste annually, with clothing and footwear accounting for around 5.2 million tonnes. Global recycling rates for textiles remain alarmingly low, with less than 1% repurposed into new products.

To address these challenges, the UK has been actively promoting circular solutions. One example is Repurpose, a new hub created by Recomme and ACS Clothing, which focuses on making circular models such as rental, repair, and recycling more accessible. This reflects the broader movement to embed sustainability across the fashion supply chain, involving organizations like the Institute of Positive Fashion, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), and the UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT).

Key report themes include scaling innovation, developing sustainable materials and production methods, and supporting businesses and communities in adopting circular practices. The report is both a reflection of progress and a call to action, pushing for collaborative efforts to meet sustainability goals.

For more information, please visit the Institute of Positive Fashion’s website: Institute of Positive Fashion.