Driving a Greener Future for the Industry
With global consumers prioritising sustainability and regulatory frameworks becoming increasingly stringent, the sector stands at a pivotal moment, states Ritesh Khandelwal.
As the global conversation around sustainability intensifies, the textile industry stands at a pivotal juncture—one where innovation and responsibility must converge to define its future. The integration of ecological responsibility with technological advancement has emerged as a transformative force in this evolution. As we enter 2025, the industry faces a pressing challenge to reconcile rapid growth with the urgent need for sustainability.
The textile sector, long associated with resource-intensive production and environmental strain, must now undergo a fundamental shift. From raw material sourcing to manufacturing, distribution, and waste management, sustainability must be embedded at every stage of the supply chain. While advancements in eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient processes, and circular economy models offer promising solutions, the path forward requires more than just incremental changes—it demands a systemic rethinking of how the industry operates.
In this context, the intersection of technology and sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity. The question remains, can the textile industry truly embrace the integration of ecology and technology to drive meaningful and lasting change, or will it stay constrained by outdated practices? The answer lies in the industry’s ability to innovate, adapt, and redefine itself for a more sustainable future.
The Indian textile and apparel (T&A) industry has long been an integral part of the nation’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. Valued at approximately $150 billion, it is one of the largest sectors in the country, accounting for nearly 14 per cent of India’s industrial output. As the world’s second-largest textile producer, the industry provides livelihoods to around 45 million people, reinforcing its role as an economic mainstay. However, its environmental footprint is a growing concern. While the Indian textile and apparel industry remains a critical economic pillar, its environmental impact highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices to safeguard both the planet and public health
According to the World Bank, textile dyeing and treatment alone contribute to nearly 20 per cent of global industrial water pollution. The sector’s reliance on water-intensive processes results in staggering wastage—up to 200 tonne of water per tonne of finished fabric—while the extensive use of chemicals and high energy consumption further exacerbate ecological damage. These practices not only strain natural resources but also pose serious risks to human health and biodiversity.
With increasing regulatory scrutiny and a global shift towards sustainable consumption, the industry is now under pressure to adopt more responsible practices. The transition to eco-friendly alternatives is no longer optional but a necessity for long-term viability. To remain competitive in an evolving market, Indian textile manufacturers must integrate sustainability into every stage of production, from sourcing raw materials to implementing cleaner technologies and waste management systems. The challenge lies in striking a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship, a shift that will define the industry’s future trajectory.
The Indian government has set an ambitious target of expanding the textile and apparel T&A sector to $350 billion by 2030 a goal that, while attainable, comes with significant challenges. The industry faces intense global competition, supply chain inefficiencies, and mounting concerns over environmental sustainability. Additionally, international buyers are placing greater scrutiny on labour practices and carbon emissions, adding to the sector’s complexities. To position India as a global textile leader, incremental progress will no longer suffice; a fundamental transformation is essential.
Despite the challenges, 2025 presents significant opportunities for India’s textile and apparel sector. The growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced fashion is reshaping global consumer preferences, with buyers favoring brands that align with their values. India, with its rich heritage of natural fibers and artisanal craftsmanship, is well-positioned to meet this shift. Additionally, the rise of nearshoring in Europe and the U.S. offers Indian manufacturers a chance to leverage cost advantages and scale to expand their global footprint. The key question remains—will the industry capitalise on this moment?
For India to emerge as a global leader in textiles, sustainability must be a priority, not an afterthought. The industry remains one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution, consuming vast amounts of water, energy, and chemicals. To move beyond its image as a cost-effective supplier, India must position itself as a hub for eco-conscious innovation. Consider a handloom saree crafted using zero-waste techniques or high-performance sportswear made from recycled ocean plastics—these are not just trends but the future of the industry. Embracing sustainability at every stage of production can set India apart in the global market. The shift towards organic cotton and alternative fibres like bamboo and hemp reduces chemical dependence while promoting biodiversity. Certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) are gaining traction, reinforcing consumer demand for ethically produced, eco-friendly textiles.
The future of textiles extends far beyond traditional apparel, with high-growth segments poised to redefine the industry. Technical textiles—ranging from geotextiles and medical fabrics to protective clothing—present a multi-billion-dollar opportunity. Similarly, the rise of smart textiles, embedded with sensors for applications in fitness, healthcare, and fashion, is gaining momentum. Another transformative avenue is the circular economy, which focuses on recycling old garments into new products, minimising waste, and creating a sustainable supply chain. These emerging sectors embody the essence of integrating innovation and sustainability, offering India a chance to lead the next phase of textile evolution.
Smart factories powered by IoT enhance production efficiency, while 3D knitting and digital printing minimise waste
Technology is set to be the defining force in the future of textiles. AI-driven design, automated production lines, and blockchain-enabled supply chain transparency are transforming the industry. Smart factories powered by IoT enhance production efficiency, while 3D knitting and digital printing minimise waste. Meanwhile, big data analytics enables precise trend forecasting, ensuring just-in-time manufacturing and reducing inventory losses. By integrating these advancements, India can not only drive cost efficiencies but also meet the rising global demand for sustainable and innovative textiles.
However, to turn challenges into opportunities, a proactive policy framework is essential. Incentives for green manufacturing, subsidies for R&D in sustainable materials, and tax benefits for adopting modern technologies can accelerate progress. Strengthening infrastructure, such as developing mega textile parks under the PM MITRA scheme, will further enhance competitiveness by reducing logistics costs. Equally crucial is workforce upskilling in emerging areas like textile recycling and technical textiles. Collaboration between industry players, technology providers, and research institutions is already driving innovation—strategic partnerships between textile giants and tech startups are fostering scalable, cost-effective sustainability initiatives. By embracing technology and policy-driven reforms, India can position itself as a global leader in the next era of textiles.
The integration of ecology and technology is no longer an option but an imperative for India’s textile industry. With global consumers prioritising sustainability and regulatory frameworks becoming increasingly stringent, the sector stands at a pivotal moment. The integration of eco-conscious practices and cutting-edge technology will determine its trajectory in the years ahead. By embracing this transformation, India can not only solidify its leadership in the global textile market but also set a new standard for responsible and innovative manufacturing. The rise of leveraging innovation combined with sustainability presents an unprecedented opportunity—one that allows the industry to drive growth, enhance global competitiveness, and safeguard the environment for future generations. The question is not whether this shift will happen, but how swiftly and effectively India will lead the way.
About the author: Ritesh Khandelwal is the co-founder of ZYOD, a rapidly growing tech enabled fashion manufacturing firm renowned for its comprehensive design-to-delivery services tailored to fashion brands. ZYOD offers an extensive portfolio of the latest styles and trends, catering to the dynamic structures of the fashion industry. Khandelwal is a visionary who sees ZYOD as a pioneering force in fashion and following trends while also prioritizing environmental sustainability
