Journal of Design Studio

Abstract

Growing fashion trends and the problems of massive waste generation, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources has led to an intense search for alternative ways to obtain raw materials for the production of textiles and other related products. In recent times sustainability have become the focus of attention due to the desire to reduce the use of natural resources and guarantee a healthier environment. Circular economy has appeared as a sustainable solution to this global economic, environmental, and social problem. Globally, the public and business sectors, as well as academia, are becoming more conscious of the circular economy. The circular economy presents a novel strategy aimed at altering our perspective on the creation and consumption of products and services. Nigerians haven't, however, fully benefited from the circular economy. The traditional textile industries operate in a linear fashion, extracting raw materials and using them to make cloth that is then discarded after a short period of time. This method is unsustainable since it produces a lot of garbage. Adoption of the circular economy offers a new model for keeping textile resources in use for as long as possible, resulting in a reduction of the quantity of textile waste generated. This is in response to resource depletion and the environmental pollution that arises from improper disposal of textile waste. The study used a mixed research strategy that included both exploratory and qualitative research. As a useful tool for moving towards a circular economy, the study aims to explore and encourage Nigerians to adopt reuse, repair, recycling and upcycling of textiles strategies. The aim was accomplished by reviewing existing practices on adoption of reuse, repair, upcycling and recycling of textile. Financial and environmental advantages of reusing, repairing, recycling and upcycling of textile were also examined. Waste fabric that was turned into a rope band used to conduct a hands-on investigation of upcycling and worn fabric was recycled into insulated pot holder. Visits was made to churches providing free worn fabric for reuse. Highlighted were the steps involved in weaving a table mat out of leftover fabric and the finished result, a tablemat. The study found that these tactics can be used by both individuals and cooperative organizations to address the issue of environmental pollution, save resources and money, particularly in current difficult economic climate, and provide income for young people without jobs.