Sustainability, the Circular Economy and Digitalisation in the German Textile and Clothing Industry

The textile and clothing (T&C) industry is not usually viewed as an exemplar of sustainable development the circular economy (CE), has hitherto developed its products in a linear fashion, with relatively little recycling finished goods. This article examines industry’s approach to core sustainability concept CE particular through review available academic literature, evidence from corporate reports websites, feedback online survey professionals. More specifically, investigates how German T&C companies are addressing their strategies what activities relating being pursued industry. role digital technologies transition also explored. study finds that whilst now firmly embedded at strategic level vast majority studied, attitudes towards mixed. use support objectives limited present, but need meet compliance requirements new customer perceptions will speed activities, which be facilitated by greater exploitation these technologies. An operational framework for initiating such developed, action lists key areas change organization, products, processes presented. These may used guideline practitioners, findings make small contribution scarcity literature this field research.