Sustainable Innovation in Fashion: Analysing Recharkha's Eco-Friendly Business Model

Abstract The fashion industry faces mounting pressure to address its environmental and social impacts, prompting innovative business models that prioritize sustainability. This study examines Recharkha, an Indian eco-friendly fashion initiative, to analyze its sustainable business model centred on upcycling waste materials into high-value textile products. The research investigates Recharkha’s upcycling techniques, such as transforming plastic waste and textile scraps into handwoven fabrics, and evaluates their environmental benefits, including reductions in waste and carbon emissions. Additionally, the study explores Recharkha’s societal contributions, such as empowering local artisans through skill development and providing economic opportunities in underserved communities. There is a rising need for sustainable alternatives because the fashion sector is one of the biggest causes of environmental deterioration. The sustainable fashion business model of Recharkha is examined in this study, with particular attention paid to its creative use of upcycling and the concepts of the circular economy. Findings reveal that Recharkha’s model aligns with circular economy principles, significantly lowering environmental footprints while fostering social equity. However, challenges like scalability and cost competitiveness persist. This research contributes to the discourse on sustainable fashion by highlighting practical of upcycling and offering insights for policymakers and entrepreneurs aiming to advance eco-friendly business practices. The results show that reCharkha's concept empowers local people by creating jobs and promoting ethical production methods, in addition to promoting environmental sustainability. In the paper’s conclusion, which also provides information on how other businesses might use comparable procedures to support sustainable development a circular economy.