Measuring the State of Circularity in the UK Fashion Industry
Conclusion
Executive Summary
Part 3
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Introduction
Part 2
Part 1
Conclusion
The intention/action gap
CFIN adopts an ecosystem approach to research and insight gathering, and this survey and report are no exceptions. The aim was to step back from an already active segment of the circular economy to better identify challenges and determine actionable steps for the CFIN team. By engaging directly with the industry, the survey insights and this report have established a robust evidence base, providing a solid foundation to build a compelling business case for change to present to the government and wider stakeholders. Several ongoing initiatives are contributing to the advancement of circular fashion, including efforts to create circular ecosystems, explore system feasibility, and focus on specific processes such as recycling and waste reduction. Legislative developments like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Right to Repair are fostering progress, while businesses are introducing circular initiatives such as sustainable collections, pre-loved garments, and digital solutions to support circular design. Despite these positive intentions, both the industry and government must ensure these efforts can scale effectively. This study reveals strong appetite for support across the industry, but scaled action remains limited. The report identifies four key focus areas to act as a roadmap for change, starting with building a strong business case and addressing current blockers. Achieving this will require collaborative efforts across the industry to turn intent into action. Overcoming challenges demands coordinated efforts and a critical mass of consensus on a shared roadmap. Collaboration between key ecosystem players—academia, industry, and government—is essential. This collective action can take the form of voluntary participation in initiatives such as CFIN or responses to regulatory pressures. The wave of EU regulations under the Circular
Economy Action Plan is already impacting brands and businesses operating in EU member states, requiring operational changes to meet legislative demands. In the UK, government interventions, including incentives, tax relief, carbon taxes, and other measures, can stimulate green growth in the fashion sector. These steps can reduce resource extraction and reward businesses working to mitigate environmental impacts. “The EU’s transition to a circular economy will reduce pressure on natural resources and will create sustainable growth and jobs. It is also a prerequisite to achieve the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality target and to halt biodiversity loss.”
Anonymous survey respondent
Measuring the State of Circularity in the UK Fashion Industry, highlights the urgency of scaling circular fashion initiatives. While positive efforts exist, significant impact requires collaboration among industry, academia, and government. The report outlines a clear roadmap for action, emphasising the need for coordinated responses to both EU regulations and potential UK interventions. Aligning these efforts will be crucial in advancing the fashion sector towards a sustainable and economically viable future.
Credit: KHK
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