Czech consumer decision-making in clothing disposal: insights for a circular textile system

Purpose This paper aims to examine consumer behaviour based on gender and age related to textile waste disposal methods and reasons in the Czech Republic. Design/methodology/approach This quantitative study adopts a positivist approach, inspired by Western studies, to measure consumer clothing disposal behaviours using a structured questionnaire that captures disposal nuances through multiple responses. Responses are analysed using frequency percentages, normalised by gender and age. Cross-tabulation chi-square tests evaluate interactions like reason × gender × age, with Cramér’s V for effect size. Significance at p < 0.05; software: Python with Perplexity backend. Findings Female consumers primarily act sustainably with textile waste, but improvements are possible through changes in purchasing habits. Durability issues remain the main disposal reason, suggesting manufacturers and policymakers can promote sustainability through better quality, care at-home recycling initiatives and consumer education. Research limitations/implications The anonymous, self-selected sample and its younger, digitally connected participants may limit generalisability. All respondents are presumed to have an interest in fashion or sustainability, and the sample size was 81% women. Practical implications This research indicates that consumer education is the most crucial factor for policymakers to prioritise in encouraging better purchasing, repair and disposal behaviours, alongside improvements in textile quality. Originality/value This empirical study is novel in its regional context contrasting to traditional Western samples whilst including a comprehensive data set for detailed comparison.