Circular Economy in Textiles and Apparel - Chapter 1: Introduction and the concept of circular economy

The purpose of this chapter is to develop the concept of circular economy as an alternative to the currently prevailing economic system called linear economy. The circular economy is based on the natural cycle, which evidences a perfectly balanced operation. In the circular economy, there is no such thing as waste, as it becomes a new source of resources, which, if possible, should add value to the new product. Today, the emergence of the circular economy is a need rather than an alternative. The way in which goods and services are both produced and consumed—particularly in the fashion system—is highly accelerated, almost addictive. The circular economy states that, when properly treated, every resource can be reappraised. This implies certain harmony like that prevailing in nature. Resilience, creativity, innovation, and transparency are some of the mandatory qualities to move toward it.