From Waste to Worth: Rethinking Glove Industry Waste for Sustainability

Abstract The textile industry is one of the largest industries globally and plays a crucial role in the economic development of many countries. Nearby one third of economic contribution is from textile industries in India. However, the industry also generates a significant amount of waste, making it a major problem of the pollution. This study was conducted using surveys and interviews to understand the nature and volume of textile waste to resolve this problem. The findings revealed that glove industries generate waste in the form of leftover fibers and rejected gloves during production. Rather than allowing this waste to contribute to soil and air pollution, it can be regenerated into useful products such as doormats, rugs, handbags and other household items. This process not only helps reduce environmental pollution but also decreases the demand for new fibers, leading to a more sustainable and circular economy. Recycling textile waste is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity. This study highlights the importance of sustainability in the textile industry and suggests effective ways to minimize waste and its negative impact on the planet.