Awareness of consumers regarding recycled textiles

Recycled textiles sustainably play a crucial role by reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing environmental pollution. These textiles are created by repurposing discarded fabrics, used clothing, and manufacturing scraps, thereby promoting a circular economy in the apparel industry. With the rapid growth of fast fashion, textile waste has become a significant environmental concern, making recycling an essential strategy for sustainability. This study investigates consumer awareness and preferences regarding recycled textiles among undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 50 respondents, revealing that 78% were aware of recycled textiles, while 74% preferred recycling. Clothing was the most commonly preferred category for recycling (74%), followed by handloom (20%). The study also found that 64% of UG and 52% of PG students preferred purchasing recycled textiles at half price, with 70% favouring a price range of ₹12-15 per item. Despite growing awareness, 74% of students were unaware of textile recycling brands, indicating a gap in market accessibility and consumer knowledge. The increasing environmental impact of the textile industry makes it crucial for individuals to adopt sustainable practices like recycling and reusing textiles. Greater awareness and accessibility of recycled textiles can significantly reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources like water and energy, and lower the carbon footprint associated with textile production. Governments, industries, and educational institutions must work together to encourage sustainable consumption through targeted awareness campaigns, innovative recycling technologies, and policy support. Moreover, incorporating sustainability into fashion choices and making recycled textiles more affordable and accessible can drive greater adoption among consumers. By promoting the circular economy model in the textile sector, society can move towards a more responsible and environmentally friendly future, ensuring long-term benefits for both the planet and future generations.