Fabrics of the Future: Economics, Environment and Equity as Calls for Critical Thinking

Abstract

This article explores the general future position of the textile fabric sector on how it can contribute to sustainable production and consumption of fabrics in the coming decades. Using a futures studies perspective, the article examines the drivers, practices and barriers impacting the fabric production and consumption landscape at global and local levels. Findings identified textile innovations as key drivers positively revolutionising the next generation of fabrics though barriers hinder their uptake in emerging economies; practices within the global fabric production industry continue to show a heavy reliance on non-renewable resources and linear economy models that result in the depletion of natural resources and excessive accumulation of fabric waste. The “throw-away” culture and “fast fashion business model” are two drivers fuelling over and wasteful consumption of clothes, with fast fashion negatively contributing to unjust systems of production and consumption