Zero-saste-mile circular textiles for local value creation

The current system for producing, distributing, and using clothing operates mostly in a linear way. Large amounts of non-renewable resources are extracted to produce clothes that are often used for only a short period, after which the materials are discarded. European consumers use about 12-17 kg textiles per capita per year from which only a fraction is recycled. Textile waste ends up thousands of miles away from where it was produced and used.

City of Groningen has the objective to become a zero-waste city in 2030 and has already started initiatives for achieving this goal. Clothing and textiles are iconic for attracting citizen participation and new value creation. Used clothing and textiles are cascaded by selecting usable items for resale. Fibres can locally recycled into new yarns and woven textiles for fashion and products.

The aim of this project is to develop 100% local textile recycling. The recycling is local for creation of local values and for reduction of waste-miles. Cooperation is with citizens, designers, entrepreneurs supported by education and science for creation of new value chains for attractive comfortable clothing, fashion and other textiles.

City of Groningen, Netherlands

Other cities or communities who intend to create local zero-waste textile value chains based upon recycled textile materials.