Advances in Recycling of Textiles Aiming at Circularity – Part 1
The textile industry's environmental impact has worsened due to the rise of synthetic polyester fibers and fast fashion. These fibers are poorly biodegradable, contributing to long-term pollution. In the EU, 12 kg of textile waste per person is generated annually, with most being incinerated or landfilled. To combat this, the EU Commission proposes making producers responsible for the entire lifecycle of textiles and promoting a circular economy. However, large-scale recycling remains in its infancy, facing significant investment and technological challenges.