Circular Economy
An economic model that eliminates waste by keeping materials in use for as long as possible through reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling.
Definition
The circular economy is a regenerative economic model designed to eliminate waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use at their highest value for as long as possible, and regenerate natural systems. In fashion, this means designing clothes to last, creating take-back and repair programmes, using recycled or recyclable materials, and ensuring garments can be safely returned to nature or industry at end of life. It stands in contrast to the traditional linear 'take-make-waste' model that has dominated the fashion industry.
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What is circular economy in fashion?
The circular economy in fashion refers to a system where clothes are designed, produced, and used in ways that minimise waste and maximise the lifespan of materials. This includes designing for durability and disassembly, offering repair services, collecting used garments for resale or recycling, and using materials that can be safely recycled or composted at end of life. It's a fundamental shift from the 'make, use, throw away' linear model.
Which fashion brands are leading the circular economy?
Several brands are pioneering circular fashion: Patagonia's Worn Wear programme repairs and resells used garments; Eileen Fisher's RENEW initiative takes back used clothing; Nudie Jeans offers free repairs for life; Pangaia uses bio-based and recycled materials designed for recyclability. Many emerging brands are building circular principles into their design from the ground up.
What jobs are available in circular fashion?
Circular economy roles in fashion include Circular Design Specialist, Textile Recycling Coordinator, Take-Back Programme Manager, Sustainability Strategy Consultant, Materials Innovation Manager, and Reverse Logistics Coordinator. As circular business models grow, demand for these specialist roles is increasing across brands, consultancies, and NGOs.
Is the circular economy just about recycling?
Recycling is actually the least preferred option in the circular economy hierarchy. The priority order is: reduce (make less stuff), reuse (extend product life), repair, refurbish, remanufacture, and only then recycle. In fashion, this means designing longer-lasting clothes, offering rental and second-hand options, and building repair programmes before relying on recycling as a solution.
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