Green Tech Reshaping Textiles

Major brands are actively embedding circularity into their business models by promoting recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable manufacturing, informs Urvashi Sharma.

The idea of a “Circular Economy”has gained increasing significance in the global textile and apparel industry recent years, fuelled by the urgency to tackle environmental issues and the rising awareness of the importance of sustainable consumption & production practices. Authorities across the globe are also laying out regulations to push businesses towards greener practices, while technology provides innovative solutions for sustainable manufacturing.

The textile industry in India is at a transformative crossroads, as it embraces the convergence of ecology and technology—what we term “Econology”.The fusion of ecology and technology offers the potential to create a more efficient, sustainable, and innovative industry, leading India towards becoming a global leader in textile manufacturing.

Current outlook on sustainability in Indian T&A Industry

Indian consumer preferences are evolving towards sustainable materials: Indian consumer preferences are shifting towards sustainable materials, driven by increased environmental consciousness and demand for eco-friendly products. Millennials and Gen Z consumers, in particular, prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions. Additionally, these groups are willing to pay a premium for products that adhere to environmentally friendly practices, further driving market demand.

Data Source: Published Reports

Industry leaders are shifting to green manufacturing: Domestic manufacturers are increasingly adopting circularity principles to enhance sustainability across the value chain. By integrating resource-efficient processes, reducing waste, and investing in recycling technologies, the industry is shifting towards a more responsible production model. These efforts reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term viability.

Data Source: Company’s Sustainability Reports and Annual Reports

Global fashion brands in India are integrating circular economy principles: Major brands are actively embedding circularity into their business models by promoting recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable manufacturing. Through initiatives focused on repurposing materials, minimizing water consumption, and encouraging consumer participation in recycling programs, these companies are driving a shift towards a more responsible fashion industry.

These shifts underscore the importance of adopting sustainable practices and advanced technologies to remain competitive.

The present state of India’s Textile Industry

India is the 5^th largest textile and apparel exporter globally, and the Indian textile industry is contributing 7 per cent to the country’s industrial output and 8 per cent to total exports in FY 2024. However, challenges persist:

• Water usage: The textile industry in India uses approx. 425 million gallons/day of water. On average, about 200 litres of water is consumed for dying and final washing 1 kg of fabric.
• Waste generation: Over 7,800 kilo tonne of textile waste is generated annually in India. Domestic post-consumer waste accounts for approximately 50 per cent of this total, while imported waste contributes an additional 500 kilo tonne. The rest comprises pre-consumer waste, such as fabric cuttings and spinning mill waste, further emphasizing the critical need for comprehensive waste management strategies and the implementation of circular economy principles in the textile sector.
• Global pressure: Export markets, particularly the European Union, demand compliance with stringent sustainability standards, increasing the urgency for eco-friendly practices. Failure to meet these standards can lead to reduced market access and reputational damage.

Opportunities in 2025: Econology in action

The concept of Econology presents lucrative opportunities for India’s textile sector:

• Recycled fibres: Global recycled fibre production has increased from 110 million tons in 2019 to 124 million tons in 2023. India has the potential to emerge as a leader in recycled fibre production by leveraging its large textile waste base and adopting advanced recycling technologies. [1]
• Waterless dyeing: Innovations like Dyecoo’s CO₂ dyeing technology can significantly reduce water usage to near-zero levels. Pilot projects in India demonstrate a potential 30% cost savings compared to conventional dyeing methods, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of such technologies. Additionally, waterless dyeing eliminates the need for harmful dye effluents, reducing pollution in water bodies.
• Blended fabric sorting for textile recycling: DataBeyond Technology’s AI-powered hyperspectral optical sorter for blended fabrics represents a significant advancement in sustainable textile recycling. By enabling precise separation of textile waste, it reduces landfill and incineration, minimizes environmental damage, and enhances resource efficiency.

Modern technologies are central to this transformation, enabling textile manufacturers to stay competitive in the global market:

• Automation and AI: Leveraging AI for predictive maintenance can reduce machine downtime and save energy. AI-driven quality control systems help minimize defects and waste, enhancing overall production efficiency.
• Renewable energy: Adoption of wind and solar energy in textile hubs reduces reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to sustainable production. Expanding renewable energy infrastructure will play a critical role in decarbonizing the sector.
• Digital printing: This technique uses significantly less water and reduces fabric waste. It also supports on-demand manufacturing, minimizing inventory waste and aligning production with real-time market demand.

These technologies not only enhance sustainability but also improve operational efficiency, making them critical for the industry’s future growth.

Government support for econology

The government’s role is pivotal in supporting the rise of Econology:

• State policies: Several states have implemented textile policies to promote sustainability, offering financial incentives to businesses. Haryana provides capital investment and interest subsidies to promote textile recycling practices. Gujarat offers subsidies for Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), while Maharashtra supports ETPs and Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems. These measures encourage the adoption of green technologies, support effective waste management, and foster the circular economy.
• Green initiatives: The Ministry of Textiles has launched the Sustainable Textiles for Sustainable Development (SusTex) initiative, which focuses on waste management, resource efficiency, and the adoption of cleaner technologies. Furthermore, the Ministry has initiated a project for the recycling of post-consumer textiles in collaboration with the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC.

Paving the way forward

The rise of Econology marks a transformative shift for India’s textile industry, offering an opportunity to combine sustainability with technological advancements. To capitalize on this, India must focus on key areas:

• Investment in R&D: Promoting innovation in sustainable materials and technologies through partnerships with research institutions, such as those in Germany and Taiwan, can drive cutting-edge solutions.
• Industry collaboration: Strong partnerships among manufacturers, brands, and tech providers are essential for scaling sustainable practices.
• Skill development: Upskilling the workforce through training programs and establishing centres of excellence in sustainable textiles is vital for adapting to emerging trends.
• Policy support: Ongoing government support, including favourable policies, subsidies, and incentives, will encourage the adoption of sustainable practices across the industry.

By embracing these strategies, India can lead the way in sustainable textile manufacturing, setting a global example.

About the author:

Urvashi Sharma is a Consultant at Wazir Advisors, bringing over three years of expertise in strategy development, research, and financial analysis within the textile and apparel industry. She has played a key role in shaping policy recommendations, conducting comprehensive market analysis, and formulating strategic plans, while also leading sustainability-focused projects in the sector.