Challenges and opportunities of the circular economy in the textile industry in Cucuta

Abstract

The circular economy in the textile industry is a strategy to address the environmental impacts caused by textile manufacturing, a field that contributes significantly to textile waste pollution. This environmental impact occurs both globally and nationally. This article conducted a study to define the challenges and opportunities presented by the circular economy in the Colombian textile industry, specifically in Cúcuta, Norte de Santander, where garment manufacturing is an important pillar of the economy but also faces technological, cultural, and organizational limitations. In addition, this study contains a systematic scientific observation and a qualitative methodology based on open surveys and a focus group. Obstacles to the adoption of circular prototypes were identified, and the results showed that although there is an understanding of the environmental and economic benefits of eco-design, material reuse, and garment repair, the use of this pattern is very low due to a lack of infrastructure, low investment in technological innovation, high costs, and weak environmental responsibility on the part of companies and consumers who favor fast fashion at low costs. There are benefits such as green jobs and trade disputes, entry into new sustainable markets, and support for regional economic development. Ultimately, the opportunity to establish a circular model in the textile industry will depend on the unity of the sector's stakeholders. The state and consumers, the strengthening of public policies that favor sustainable practices, technical education for environmental improvement, and the growth of a culture of responsible use will enable progress toward a more efficient and sustainable production model.