Indian designer Anish Malpani, the creator of the label ‘Without,’ has been crowned the winner of the 5th Circular Design Challenge (CDC), India’s most significant sustainability award. The CDC, organized by R|Elan in partnership with the United Nations, aims to recognize and promote circularity, sustainability, and innovation in the fashion and textile industries.
Global Expansion of CDC
To provide a global platform for fashion design talent focused on sustainability, the CDC has expanded its reach to the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the Asia-Pacific region. As one of the highest polluters, the fashion industry needs transformation, and the CDC seeks to address this issue by encouraging the integration of sustainable practices in design and production.
Promoting Circular Manufacturing and Environmental Impact
The Circular Design Challenge advocates adopting a circular manufacturing model to reduce waste and pollution in the fashion and apparel industry. It places importance on recognizing India’s heritage, creating fashion labels with social impact, and advancing sustainable practices that address environmental concerns.
Impressive Past Winners
Over the years, the CDC has supported and highlighted innovative fashion designers and entrepreneurs who prioritize sustainability. Previous winners include I Was A Sari, which upcycles discarded saris while empowering women artisans, and Malai Biomaterials Design, which creates sustainable alternatives to leather. Other winners include Bandit, specializing in upcycling various materials, and Pieux, focusing on recycled materials and modular garment construction.
CDC’s Impact and Partnerships
The CDC has played a vital role in transforming the fashion ecosystem and supporting sustainable practices. Through workshops and networks, it has supported 25 alums in their journey towards a more sustainable fashion industry. The challenge has forged partnerships with organizations such as the British Council, Redress, and Istituto Marangoni to expand its reach and influence across borders.
Recognition and Mentorship
Anish Malpani, the winner of the CDC, received funding worth Rs 15 lakhs, the coveted CDC trophy, and a six-month mentorship program. The runner-up, Felipe Fiallo from the European Union, received support worth Rs 5 lakhs. Both winners will be mentored by Orsola de Castro, Co-founder of Fashion Revolution and Creative Director of Estethica.
Global Prominence and National Support
The CDC demonstrates the potential for collaboration between the fashion industry, the United Nations, and multilateral organizations to drive sustainable change. It aligns with India’s Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, encouraged everyone to participate in Mission LiFe and emphasized the need to solve environmental challenges.
Reliance Industries Commitment to Sustainability
Reliance Industries, India’s largest conglomerate and the organizer of the CDC is committed to promoting circularity and sustainability in the fashion industry. Hemant D Sharma, Sector Head – Polyester at Reliance Industries, highlighted the initiative’s role in nurturing and promoting environmental champions and establishing itself as India’s most significant sustainable fashion award.
Elevating the Circular Design Challenge Globally
Jaspreet Chandok, Group Vice President of Reliance Brands, expressed their vision of promoting sustainable fashion worldwide. With the support of R|Elan and the United Nations in India, the CDC has become the biggest sustainability platform in the country. The aim is to make CDC an international success and attract creative minds worldwide.
Fashion as a Driver for Responsible Production
Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India, emphasized the power of fashion in driving responsible production and consumption. The CDC aligns with the global Lifestyles for Environment (LiFE) movement, endorsed by the G20, and reflects India’s sustainable culture and climate action leadership.
Innovative Designs and Recycled Materials
Anish Malpani’s label ‘Without’ showcased eyewear fashion made from recycled Multi-layered Plastic Packaging (MLP), with functionality and style at the forefront. Pursuing a circular approach, the brand transformed discarded packets of chips into stylish, UV-polarized, and durable sunglasses. ‘Without’ aims to empower waste pickers and promote guilt-free consumption.
Felipe Fiallo, the runner-up, presented a unique footwear line that combined digital fabrication, style, and sustainability. His designs focused on regenerative practices and innovative combinations of technology and craftsmanship. The footwear collection ranged from knee-high boots to futuristic ankle booties, with a geometric structure adding a touch of space-age aesthetics.
A Bright Future for Circular Design
The Circular Design Challenge catalyzes change in the fashion industry, promoting sustainable practices and fostering international collaboration. With the support of influential industry leaders and the United Nations, it continues to shape the future of fashion towards circularity and sustainable thinking.
