BFC x UKFT
The BFC and UKFT-led Circular Fashion Innovation Network program, which is aligned with the Institute of Positive Fashion, will concentrate on key development areas like recycling infrastructure, sustainable manufacturing, circular business models, cutting-edge technology, a diverse and future-proof workforce, and green growth. The project, which is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), intends to build a strong circular fashion ecosystem in the UK.
UKFT will prioritise expanding recycling infrastructure and environmentally friendly manufacturing. In order to increase the competitiveness of the UK fashion and textile industries, the organisation will be backed by a variety of real-world innovation and research projects.
The UK’s Circular Fashion Innovation Network works to reduce waste and lessen the negative environmental effects of production and consumption.
The program’s goal is to open up new growth opportunities for the fashion and textile industry while connecting ongoing projects to support best practices and the advancement of emerging technologies. It does this through encouraging collaboration amongst industry stakeholders.
UKFT CEO Adam Mansell said: “Sustainable manufacturing and recycling infrastructure will be key drivers in the move to a circular fashion ecosystem here in the UK. We’re excited to work with the BFC to support our industry to connect, collaborate and share experiences to build the most resilient, sustainable and competitive sector for future generations.”
UKFT thinks the UK is well-positioned to support the shift to a circular economy because it has a vibrant and diverse manufacturing industry that includes luxury clothing, fabrics, and innovative textiles for aerospace, medicinal, and building uses. In order to reduce the industry’s environmental impact while conserving artisan craft and traditional skills, the fashion network will investigate solutions including on-demand production and regenerative textiles. Additionally, the effort seeks to strengthen the current manufacturing environment by creating an atmosphere that is favourable for the adoption of new methods and technologies.
According to UKFT, the amount of textile waste produced in the UK each year could fill Wembley Stadium 17 times over. Due to deterioration, damage, or low quality, the bulk of this garbage is deemed unfit for reuse.
Less than 1% of textiles collected around the world are made into new items, according to the charity, while about 200,000 tons of textiles are transported directly to landfills or burned annually. For the future of UK industry, turning this waste into reusable textile feedstock is a bright prospect.
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