Towards circular economy for managing post-consumer textile and garment waste in India using new technologies

Purpose This study aims to explore circular management of textile and garment wastes from the perspectives of end of the line customers as well as social enterprises in India. Design/methodology/approach Customers’ perspectives on recycling, reusing and refurbishing textile wastes is captured through a survey in the city of Hyderabad, India. The contribution of social enterprises on circular management of textile wastes is captured through case studies. Findings This paper highlights the motivating factors for customers’ participation in circular economy in the context of textiles and garments wastes. The challenges faced by both the producers and consumers are highlighted. Finally, a techno-social model is proposed for achieving textile and garment waste management through circular economy approach with stakeholder involvement. Originality/value The proposed techno-social framework ACTIVE proposed is a cost-efficient circular waste management model with multi-stakeholder involvement particularly aimed for textile and garments waste management in Global South Nations.