The textile industry in India is a vital sector that generates a significant amount of waste during its production cycles. From cutting waste to garment rejects, textile waste is a major contributor to environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. With the rapid pace of fast fashion, the production of millions of tonnes of clothes further exacerbates this problem. However, there is a solution that is gaining traction in the industry – upcycling.
What is Upcycling?
Upcycling is a process that transforms discarded production waste into new products of higher value and functionality. Unlike recycling, which breaks down materials to create new ones, upcycling creatively reuses existing materials without altering their basic structure. This approach not only offers sustainable solutions but also promotes the circular economy by reducing waste and extending the life cycle of textiles.
Textiles Committee’s Initiative
In a move to promote sustainability and circularity in the textile industry, the Textiles Committee, under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, has taken a significant step forward. Recently, the Committee signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and Standing Conference Of Public Enterprises (SCOPE) to promote upcycled textile products made from post-production textiles waste and scrap.
As part of the agreement, the Textiles Committee will develop a standard operating procedure to recognize upcycled textile manufacturers. GeM, as the central procurement platform for government agencies, will facilitate the onboarding of certified upcycled textile manufacturers. SCOPE, representing Central Government Public Enterprises, will help popularise upcycled textile materials among various public sector undertakings for their routine use.
The Signing Ceremony
The MoU signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the BharatText 2024 Mega Show in New Delhi, with the presence of Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Textiles, Smt. Dharshana Jardosh. The event was attended by key officials such as Smt. Rachna Shah, Secretary (Textiles), Sh. Rajiv Saxena, Joint Secretary, Smt. Roop Rashi, Textiles Commissioner, Ministry of Textile, Smt. Prajakta L Verma, Joint secretary (Fiber) and Sh. Prashant Kumar Singh, CEO of GeM.
With this collaborative effort, the Textiles Committee aims to drive the adoption of upcycled textile materials in the industry, promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness. By recognizing and supporting manufacturers who prioritise upcycling, the Committee is paving the way for a more sustainable future for the Indian textile sector.
In conclusion, the Textiles Committee’s partnership with GeM and SCOPE signifies a collective commitment to fostering responsible practices and promoting the use of upcycled textile materials. This initiative sets a positive precedent for the industry, encouraging other stakeholders to embrace sustainable solutions and contribute to a greener future.
