Circular fashion models are becoming increasingly popular in the sustainable fashion industry. Circular fashion is an approach that emphasizes repair, reuse, and recycling, rather than the traditional linear model of "take-make-waste".
The typical "take-make-waste" model, also known as the linear fashion model, is a prevalent system in the fashion industry that follows a one-way direction in the life cycle of garments and accessories.
.png)
|
| Circular Fashion VS Linear Fashion |
Table of Content
- 1. Understanding Circular Fashion
- 1.1 Sustainable Design and Materials
- 1.2 Longevity and Durability
- 1.3 Reuse and Recycling
- 1.4 Waste Reduction
- 1.5 Ethical Production
- 1.6 Consumer Engagement
- 1.7 Technology and Innovation
- 1.8 Alignment with Global Agendas
- 2. Benefit of Circular Fashion
- 3. The Stages of Circular Fashion
- 4. Supporting Circular Fashion: A How-To Guide
The fast fashion culture encourages the production and consumption of inexpensive clothing meant for short-term use. As a result, massive amounts of garments are quickly discarded, leading to enormous waste. In many countries, textiles are one of the fastest-growing categories of waste in landfills.
For instance, The Citarum River in Indonesia which often cited as one of the most polluted rivers in the world, with the textile industry playing a significant role in this problem. With over 2,000 textile factories situated along the riverbanks, untreated industrial wastewater, heavy metals, and harmful chemicals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead are dumped directly into the river causing severe environmental degradation.
|
| Citarum River (Source: The Jakarta Post) |
By shifting away from a linear system that ends in waste, circular fashion emphasizes sustainability at every stage. From using renewable and recyclable materials to employing ethical labor practices, the circular model ensures that products are made to be made again. It represents a complete rethinking of how clothing is designed, used, and recovered, turning waste into value and promoting environmental stewardship.
Understanding Circular Fashion
.png)
Circular fashion represents a paradigm shift towards sustainable fashion. It's a model that values sustainability, reusability, and waste reduction, aiming to establish a closed-loop system where every material has a purpose and nothing is discarded.
Sustainable Design and Materials
 |
| Sateri's viscose fiber (Source: sateri.com) |
A prime example of this model in action is Sateri, a leading manufacturer of
viscose rayon. Made from renewable plant-based materials, Sateri's viscose
rayon is often utilized in textiles and fashion. The company's commitment to
using sustainable resources, coupled with its focus on creating biodegradable
products, aligns perfectly with the principles of circular fashion.
Through innovation and responsibility, Sateri's approach showcases how the sustainable fashion industry can evolve to meet the demands of both style and sustainability.
 |
| Viscose Value Chain (Source: sateri.com) |
Viscose rayon is a cellulosic fiber, which means it can be biodegraded. This feature aligns with the circular fashion goal of creating products that can return to the earth without harm once their lifecycle is complete.
In addition, the production process of Sateri's viscose rayon aims to minimize waste and harmful emissions. The fiber's characteristics, such as its ability to blend well with other fibers, can make recycling more efficient and support the creation of garments with multiple lifecycles.
Moreover, Sateri has commitments to sustainability standards, and their production processes often align with global certifications. These standards ensure responsible sourcing, ethical production, and environmental stewardship, all of which are core components of the circular fashion model.
Also Read: Mengenal 5 Produk Tekstil Unggulan Ramah Lingkungan dari Sateri
Longevity and Durability
The goal of a circular fashion is to extend the life of each garment as much as possible. This means creating high-quality products that can withstand wear and tear, and encouraging consumers to take care of their clothes to increase their lifespan.
Sateri's production of viscose rayon exemplifies this principle. Their viscose is known for its quality and durability, making it an ideal material for creating long-lasting garments. Not only is the fiber smooth and comfortable, but it also retains color well and has a pleasing drape, which contributes to the garment's longevity.
Furthermore, Sateri’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has led them to develop new types of viscose such as FINEX™, which is made from recycled textile waste. This product represents a significant stride in sustainable fashion, transforming waste into high-quality, wearable fiber.
Reuse and Recycling
 |
| FINEX™ Value Chain Infographic (Source: sateri.com) |
Once a garment reaches the end of its life, the circular model ensures that it doesn't end up in a landfill. Clothes can be resold, donated, or even taken apart and remade into new garments. Recycling technologies are evolving to allow more materials to be recovered and used again.
Sateri has shown innovation in this area with products like FINEX™, which is made from recycled textile waste. FINEX™ is made from bio-based natural fibers derived from a mix of recycled pre and post consumer textile waste, and other PEFC-certified wood pulp from renewable plantations.
This demonstrates the company's commitment to evolving recycling technologies and their ability to transform old garments into new, high-quality fibers.
Also Read: 7 Indonesian Sustainable Fashion Brand Collaborating with Asia Pacific Rayon
Waste Reduction
In the pursuit of sustainable fashion, every stage of the production process must be scrutinized to minimize waste. This scrutiny not only includes employing cutting patterns to reduce fabric waste but also involves the use of manufacturing techniques that conserve water and energy.
Sateri's commitment to responsible production echoes this approach. The company maintains a rigorous analysis of its production process to enhance sustainability, thereby reducing waste. This analytical approach is evident in their collaboration with the China Association of Circular Economy.
For example, they have conducted studies on recycled dissolving pulp derived from textile waste, addressing the industry's issue of insufficient recycled dissolving pulp since 2021. This specific project showcases Sateri's dedication to finding innovative solutions to sustainability challenges through careful examination and research.
According to Sateri Sustainability Report 2021, Sateri has formulated an advanced emissions management system and regular monitoring and inspection mechanisms, which ensures that the wastewater, exhaust gas and solid waste generated in operation processes comply with the laws and regulations of where they operate.
Ethical Production
 |
| Sateri actively engage with local communities (Source: sateri.com) |
Circular fashion also considers the social aspect of sustainability. Fair labor practices, ethical sourcing, and community engagement are integral to this approach.
For instance, in Sateri, the workers within their facilities are treated with dignity and respect, complying with labor laws and providing fair wages, reasonable working hours, and safe working conditions.
Sateri is committed to responsible sourcing and adheres to ethical labor practices throughout its supply chain. They ensure that the materials used in their production processes are sustainably sourced, and they actively engage with local communities.
By focusing on the well-being of the workers and communities that are part of their operation, Sateri embodies the social sustainability ideals intrinsic to the circular fashion model. Their practices not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also foster social responsibility, aligning their corporate values with the broader goals of circular fashion.
Consumer Engagement
 |
| 17th Dhaka Int’l Textile & Garment Machinery Exhibition Campaign Poster (Source: instagram/ discoverapril) |
APRayon, one of the leading viscose rayon manufacturer in Asia, recognizes the significance of educating consumers about these sustainable fashion choices. To this end, APRayon has been collaborating with several sustainable fashion brands in Indonesia. Together, they are creating affordable, high-quality fashion items and showcasing them at prominent events, such as the Muslim Fashion Festival and other significant gatherings sponsored by APRayon.
These products are consistently advertised online to reach a broader audience. Moreover, through APRayon's social media accounts and website, they not only market their sustainable fashion items but also deliver educational information about the importance of choosing sustainable fashion. They are dedicated to fostering awareness about the environmental benefits and long-term impacts of making such choices, thus promoting a more eco-conscious lifestyle in the world of fashion.
In addition to their online efforts, APRayon also engages in offline campaigns, including hosting and participating in events, workshops, and exhibitions. These offline initiatives further amplify their commitment to sustainable fashion and allow them to connect directly with consumers and communities.
Examples of events and exhibitions sponsored by them are Dhaka International Textile and Garment Machinery Expo, Soerabaia Fashion Trend, Muslim Fashion Festival (Mufest), Fashion Revolution, and many more.
Technology and Innovation
 |
| Seminar on RGE's Investment Commitment of US$200 million in 2019 (Source: inside-rge.com) |
For example, RGE (Royal Golden Eagle), in collaboration with Nanyang Technological University (NTU), through the RGE-NTU Sustainable Textile Research Centre (RGE-NTU SusTex), is developing environmentally friendly closed-loop textile recycling technology capable of generating new products from textile waste.
This initiative is an attempt to address the existing gaps in closed-loop technology. The first gap lies in the step of sorting textile waste into homogeneous material, which requires heavy chemical solutions that are prohibited by environmental laws.
Secondly, breaking down or grinding textile waste to separate the fibers mechanically relies heavily on manual labor. This method has low accuracy and is not reliable, indicating a need for automation in this process.
Therefore, RGE-NTU SusTex is collaborating to provide solutions to these challenges. Their goal is to advance sustainable practices in the textile industry by optimizing closed-loop recycling technology, thereby fostering a more innovative, efficient, and eco-friendly approach to fashion.
Also Read: Inovasi dari Royal Golden Eagle: Teknologi Daur Ulang Tekstil Closed-Loop Terbaru
Alignment with Global Agendas
 |
| APRayon committed to using 20% recycled material in their production process by 2030 as part of APR2030 strategy (source: instagram/ asiapacificrayon) |
Circular fashion is often aligned with global sustainability efforts, such as the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is part of a broader movement to create economic systems that work in harmony with the earth's natural cycles.
Aligning with global efforts to combat climate change, APRIL Group create APR2030, which is a decade sustainability plan in the form of series of commitments towards emission reduction, closed-loop manufacturing and chemical, recovery habitat restoration, and social equality and well-being.
APR2030's commitments to accelerate circularity include:
- 20 percent recycled textile composition
- Feasibility to establish Indonesia’s first commercial scale textile recycling facility
- Establish textile recycling centers in Singapore and Indonesia
Benefit of Circular Fashion
Environmental Benefits
-
Waste Reduction
By emphasizing recycling/ upcycling and reuse, circular fashion combats the "disposable" mentality of the linear model. This doesn't just reduce landfill waste, it conserves the raw materials themselves. Imagine a garment's life not ending after one person wears it, but continuing on, either as another's clothing or as a new product altogether.
-
Energy and Water Efficiency
Innovative design and manufacturing processes look to minimize energy and water use. This includes creative cutting techniques to use every piece of fabric and employing new technologies to recycle water during production. By treating resources as precious rather than expendable, circular fashion sets a higher standard.
-
Carbon Footprint Reduction
With the use of renewable materials and emphasis on local production, the carbon footprint can be significantly decreased. Transportation, manufacturing, and even the decay of waste garments all contribute to carbon emissions. Circular fashion seeks to mitigate these at every step.
Social Benefits
-
Ethical Labor Practices
Circular fashion recognizes that sustainability isn't just about the planet, it's about the people. By emphasizing fair wages, reasonable working hours, and safe working conditions, it sets a precedent that workers throughout the supply chain are to be respected and protected.
-
Community Empowerment
Whether through partnering with local artisans or supporting community recycling initiatives, circular fashion often emphasizes local engagement. This empowers communities, fosters local creativity, and strengthens bonds between producers and consumers.
-
Consumer Awareness and Education
By transparently communicating the ethical choices embedded in garments, brands can educate consumers, helping them make more responsible buying decisions and understanding the true value of what they wear.
Economic Benefits
-
New Business Models
Circular fashion opens doors for innovative business models like clothing rental, repair services, or take-back programs. These not only provide additional revenue streams but deepen customer engagement.
-
Resource Efficiency
Using materials more efficiently and reducing waste isn't just good for the planet; it's good for the bottom line. Brands that master this can often lower costs without sacrificing quality.
-
Long-term Viability
By aligning with emerging consumer values and regulatory trends, embracing circularity can position a brand for long-term success. It's not just about responding to today's market but anticipating tomorrow's.
-
Creating Value from Waste
Circular fashion turns the traditional concept of waste on its head. What was once discarded is now a resource. By upcycling or recycling materials, economic value is created from what was once considered trash.
The Stages of Circular Fashion
-
Design Phase
The design phase is the inception of a garment's life cycle and plays a crucial role in determining its environmental impact. Here, the focus is on choosing sustainable materials such as organic fibers, recycled textiles, or materials with low ecological footprints.
Designing for longevity means creating garments that are timeless, durable, and versatile, with the intention that they will be worn for years rather than just a season.
Designing for sustainability is at the core of both Sateri's and APRayon's ethos. They emphasize the use of renewable and sustainable materials, such as viscose rayon made from plant-based fibers. These materials align with the principle of designing for longevity, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fibers and contributing to the creation of long-lasting garments.
-
Production Phase
The production phase emphasizes eco-friendly manufacturing, where resources like water and energy are used judiciously, and waste is minimized. Ethical labor practices are also central, ensuring that workers are paid fair wages, work in safe conditions, and are treated with dignity and respect. Techniques such as zero-waste cutting, digital printing, or using renewable energy sources in manufacturing contribute to a more sustainable production process.
Both Sateri and APRayon are deeply committed to eco-friendly manufacturing. They employ state-of-the-art technologies to minimize waste and energy consumption. Additionally, they ensure ethical labor practices by adhering to global standards, promoting worker well-being, and fostering a safe working environment. Their production processes are not only more sustainable but also serve as industry benchmarks.
-
Consumption Phase
During the consumption phase, the spotlight is on fostering a culture of longer use. This includes buying high-quality items that last and encouraging responsible care for products through proper washing, repairing, and maintenance. It also encompasses exploring innovative models like renting or subscribing to fashion services, which provide access to fashion without the need for ownership, further extending the life of garments.
Sateri's and APRayon's products encourage longer use through their high-quality fibers that can withstand wear and tear. By providing materials that last, they indirectly promote responsible care for products. Their alignment with sustainable fashion initiatives may also extend to supporting rental models and collaborations that emphasize conscious consumption.
-
Reuse and Recycling Phase
This phase emphasizes the processes of resale, redistribution, recycling, and upcycling. Resale and redistribution allow garments to find new owners, extending their lifespan. Recycling involves breaking down products into their base materials to create new items, while upcycling refers to creatively reusing materials to make products of higher value. These approaches divert products from landfills, giving them new life and purpose.
Through their commitment to sustainability, Sateri and APRayon encourage the reuse and recycling of their products. By producing recyclable fibers, they facilitate the processes of resale, redistribution, and recycling. They support initiatives and technologies that promote upcycling, turning old garments into new ones and avoiding unnecessary waste.
-
Regeneration Phase
The final stage, the regeneration phase, addresses concepts like biodegradation and material recovery. Biodegradation means that a product is designed to break down naturally at the end of its life, returning nutrients to the earth without harming the environment. Material recovery involves sophisticated technologies to extract valuable materials from waste products for reuse in new products. It's a symbol of the closed-loop system where nothing goes to waste, and everything is reintegrated into the cycle.
Sateri and APRayon are exploring the cutting edge of material regeneration. They invest in research and development to ensure that their fibers can be broken down and reintegrated into new products or returned to the earth through biodegradation. Their commitment to material recovery not only aligns with the principles of circular fashion but also places them at the forefront of industry innovation.
In every stage of circular fashion, Sateri and APRayon are not just passive participants but proactive leaders. Their commitment to sustainability is integrated into their business models, influencing everything from design to regeneration. Their efforts serve as a beacon for the industry, demonstrating how fashion can be both stylish and sustainable.
Supporting Circular Fashion: A How-To Guide
 |
| Asia Pacific Rayon (APR) collaborated with Matahari to help tackle the growing problem of textile waste by encouraging customers to trade in old jeans for a discount on new clothes (Source: instagram/ asiapacificrayon) |
Consumer Choices
As consumers, our choices greatly impact the fashion industry and the environment. Here are some simple ways you can support circular fashion:
-
Buy consciously
Look for clothing made from sustainable, recyclable or biodegradable materials like those produced by Sateri. Opt for high-quality items that will last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
-
Care responsibly
Taking proper care of your clothes extends their lifespan. Follow washing instructions, repair instead of replace whenever possible, and consider natural detergents that are less harmful to the environment.
-
Dispose thoughtfully
When a garment reaches the end of its life, there are several responsible options to consider, such as recycling, donating, or selling it. APRayon supports many initiatives regarding textile waste management that many individuals can easily participate in.
For example, APRayon had collaborated with Matahari, a retail store, to help tackle the growing problem of textile waste. This collaboration encourages customers to offer a trade-in of old jeans in exchange for a discount on new clothes, providing a practical solution to reduce waste and promote responsible consumption. The activities align with APRIL2030 commitment to increase material efficiency and circularity.
Brands and Certifications
Look for brands committed to circular fashion principles, such as those collaborate with Sateri and APRayon, since they have certifications that testify their commitment to sustainability. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) are examples of such certifications.
Sateri also provides forest-sourced viscose fibre with the USDA Certified 100% Biobased label. This particular certification indicates that 100% of the product's content comes from renewable biological sources. There is no inclusion of non-biological, fossil fuel-derived materials.
DIY and Upcycling
Explore creative ways to give your old clothes a new life. This could involve transforming an old t-shirt into a stylish tote bag, or converting a worn-out pair of jeans into fashionable shorts. Upcycling not only reduces waste but also gives you a unique, personalized wardrobe.
Embrace the challenge of repurposing items in unconventional ways and experiment with different materials and techniques. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new approaches – sometimes the most unique upcycling projects come from unexpected ideas.
Donation and Resale
Rather than throwing away clothes you no longer want or need, consider donating them to charities or reselling them. Fashion waste is a huge problem globally, with the equivalent of one garbage truck being sent to a landfill every second. Recycling or donating your old clothes is just one way we can all help reduce our environmental impact.
APRayon, aware of this issue, consistently supports donation initiatives and programs. For example, several boxes of used clothes from APRayon's staff in Jakarta were given to charity as a commitment to sustainable practices in fashion, highlighting their dedication to not just producing sustainable products but also encouraging responsible consumption and disposal.
Also Read: Royal Golden Eagle's Sustainable Practices in Pulp and Paper
Circular fashion isn't merely a trend, it's a lifeline for our planet. In a world cluttered with disposable attitudes, the fashion industry stands at a crossroads between continuation and conservation. We can either perpetuate the waste, contributing to environmental degradation, social inequality, and economic drain, or we can embrace a system that celebrates renewal, creativity, and responsibility.
Circular fashion is the compass guiding us to a more sustainable future where garments are not mere commodities but treasured entities, given life again and again. It's not just about looking good, it's about doing good, for our planet and for each other.
You hold the power to change the narrative. Your closet doesn't have to be a graveyard of forgotten trends, it can be a garden of endless rebirth. By supporting circular fashion, you are not just buying clothes, you are investing in a philosophy that respects the Earth's resources and honors the hands that crafted them.
Seek out brands that prioritize sustainability, consider renting instead of buying for those one-time wears, and find joy in the creative art of upcycling. Embrace fashion that doesn't just end at the seam but continues in a beautiful loop, enriching our world and weaving a tapestry of conscious consumerism.
It's more than a choice, it's a commitment to a more mindful and compassionate way of living. Join the revolution and be part of the change. Your wardrobe will thank you, and so will the Earth.
[no_Sidebar]
.png)
Komentar