Title : Towards sustainable textile and apparel waste management: A comprehensive review
Abstract:
With the global population on the rise and a marked improvement in living standards, the textile industry has witnessed unprecedented growth, leading to a surge in waste production. This study addresses the accelerating environmental challenges posed by the exponential growth in textile production and waste generation, driven by population growth and improved living standards. The textile industry has become a major contributor to environmental degradation, particularly through improper disposal of wastewater and fiber waste. This paper aims to address the current state of waste production, its sources, and characteristics within the textile sector, highlighting the urgent need for global waste management solutions. The focus is on identifying challenges and analyzing waste sources to underscore the importance of adopting sustainable practices, emphasizing the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle. The study advocates for heightened awareness of these practices to drive economic and environmental improvements in the textile industry. Furthermore, it proposes a robust framework for textile waste management, emphasizing the transformation of waste into value-added products in the textile and apparel sector. Highlighting the inadequacies in current waste management approaches, the study strives to pave the way for future developments in this crucial field. Through insights into current waste generation trends and environmental concerns, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable waste management in the textile and apparel industry. In conclusion, it offers actionable guidance for industry stakeholders striving to achieve a harmonious balance between economic prosperity and environmental stewardship in activity of a sustainable future.