Concerns about the environmental impact and sustainability of the fashion industry have been growing over the year. However, one positive fallout of these concerns is, the growing shift towards recycled polyester (rPET). Polyester, a staple in textiles, has historically relied on virgin fossil-based resources, contributing significantly to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. Recycled polyester offers a viable solution by utilizing post-consumer plastic waste, such as PET bottles, to create fibers for clothing, thereby reducing the reliance on non-renewable resources and mitigating waste.

The 2025 Recycled Polyester Challenge

Launched in 2021 by Textile Exchange in collaboration with the UNFCCC’s Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, the 2025 Recycled Polyester Challenge has given a boost to the industry's commitment to sustainability. The initiative calls on companies to pledge to source 45 to 100 percent of their polyester from recycled sources by 2025. By transitioning away from virgin polyester, the challenge aims to curb greenhouse gas emissions, decrease water usage, and promote a circular economy within the fashion industry.

Progress and achievements

As of 2024, 121 brands and suppliers have signed up for the challenge, showcasing an unprecedented level of commitment to rPET adoption. Notably, 57 per cent of the signatories have pledged to transition entirely to recycled polyester by 2025. Furthermore, almost 28 per cent of participating brands and suppliers reached their recycled polyester targets ahead of schedule in 2023, demonstrating the feasibility and scalability of this transition.

However, despite this progress, challenges persist. Scaling up rPET production to meet growing demand is a significant hurdle. The industry must also invest in advanced recycling technologies, such as chemical recycling, to ensure that recycled fibers maintain high quality and durability over multiple lifecycles. Moreover, fostering robust supply chain collaborations and enhancing transparency in sourcing and tracing recycled polyester remain critical. Consumer education is another pivotal aspect. While brands are shifting towards sustainability, it is equally important to inform and persuade consumers about the benefits of recycled polyester, encouraging them to make conscious purchasing decisions.

Global rPET production and India’s position

The global production of recycled polyester is rising steadily, driven by increasing environmental awareness and industry-wide initiatives. Leading countries in rPET production include China, India, the US, and nations within the European Union. According to Statista (2023), the global production shares are as follows.

Table: Global rPET production

(Source: Statista, 2023)

China leads in rPET production, contributing 35 per cent of the global output, followed by India at 15 per cent. India’s significant contribution stems from its well-established textile industry, government initiatives promoting sustainability, and the availability of recycled PET bottles. Indian manufacturers are increasingly adopting recycled polyester, positioning the country as a key player in the global sustainability movement.

Market trends and projections

The current market share of recycled polyester in the apparel industry is estimated at 18 per cent, an increase from 14 per cent in 2019. Experts project this share will reach 30 per cent by 2025, reflecting a positive trend. However, this projection still falls short of the 45 per cent target set by the 2025 Recycled Polyester Challenge. Bridging this gap will require accelerated investments in recycling infrastructure, innovation in recycling technologies, and intensified efforts to build consumer awareness about sustainable fashion.

The transition to recycled polyester is a pivotal step toward creating a sustainable and environmentally responsible textile industry. While challenges such as scaling production, maintaining fiber quality, and fostering supply chain transparency remain, the industry’s growing momentum is encouraging. The active involvement of stakeholders—from brands to consumers—will be instrumental in achieving the ambitious goals of the 2025 Recycled Polyester Challenge.

Strategies for advancement

Investment in technology: Scaling up chemical recycling and other advanced technologies to enhance the quality and longevity of rPET fibers.

Policy support: Governments can play a crucial role by incentivizing recycled polyester production and creating favorable regulatory frameworks.

Consumer education: Informing consumers about the environmental benefits of recycled polyester and encouraging sustainable purchasing habits.

Global collaboration: Building partnerships across borders to create robust supply chains and share best practices for recycling and sustainability.

The rise of recycled polyester marks a sustainable shift in the textile industry, addressing pressing environmental concerns while fostering innovation and economic growth. As brands, suppliers, and consumers unite in their commitment to sustainability, the vision of a circular economy becomes increasingly attainable. Continued collaboration, innovation, and education will be key to ensuring that recycled materials are not just an alternative but the norm in the fashion industry’s future.