The Fashion Producer Collective is a collection of producer-led projects representing a range of perspectives from individuals within apparel supply chains.

The Collective meets regularly in closed-door sessions to discuss specific challenges and offer insight and support. The following is a summary of the key points raised in a session on waste recycling in 2023. The points below are based on the insights written by Fashion Producer Collective co-founder, Kim van der Weerd.

The Asia Garment Hub's August 2023 Supplier Meet-Up highlighted significant challenges suppliers face in recycling textile waste, despite their willingness to adopt sustainable practices. These challenges encompass infrastructural, legal, political, and economic barriers.

Key takeaways:

1. Infrastructural challenges:

• In many countries, recycling infrastructure is underdeveloped or non-existent, making it difficult for suppliers to recycle textile waste effectively.

2. Political and economic barriers:

• Waste management services are often controlled by a few companies with strong government ties, leading to a lack of political will to develop recycling infrastructure.

“If we really want to do circularity we need different trade policies on waste.”

3. Legal constraints:

• Suppliers with licenses to import fabrics duty-free must prove that all imported textiles are exported as finished products. This requirement complicates efforts to recycle textile waste, as it may be considered a violation of import-export regulations.

Recommendations for brand CSR initiatives:

1. Advocate for improved recycling infrastructure:

• Collaborate with local governments and industry stakeholders to develop and invest in recycling facilities, enabling suppliers to manage textile waste sustainably.

2. Support policy reforms:

• Engage in policy advocacy to reform import-export regulations that hinder recycling efforts, allowing suppliers to recycle textile waste without legal repercussions.

3. Facilitate supplier collaboration:

• Encourage and support partnerships among suppliers to share resources and knowledge, fostering collective solutions to overcome recycling challenges.

4. Provide financial assistance:

• Offer financial incentives or support to suppliers investing in recycling initiatives, helping them offset the costs associated with developing sustainable waste management practices.

By implementing these recommendations, brands can strengthen their CSR initiatives, support suppliers in overcoming recycling challenges, and contribute to a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry.