Analysing the differences in textile waste management practices between the <i>Global North </i>and the <i>Global South </i>apparel industry

Abstract

The rapid growth of the apparel industry has created strain in textile waste generation, posing a major problem with regards to waste management and sustainability around the world.  This paper aims to create a comparative analysis of textile waste management practices between the Global North and Global South. Through a systematic desktop review this paper examines the differences in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks; technology capacity and socio economic challenges that influence waste generation. The employed theoretical framework for this study is the E-M-S framework which examines the relationship between society and the environment drawing particular attention to how influences such political systems, cultural values, economic forces and social structures can shape shift how the efficiency of waste management and sustainability awareness in the apparel industry. The main findings of the study demonstrate that the Global North has created stronger policy enforcements, better action based strategies for waste management structures that is paired with a growing investment in circular economy strategies for textile waste technologies and consumer responsibility. However, in contrast, the Global South faces challenges of health and safety risks, environmental pollution and overwhelming economic pressures from imported textile waste. Finally, this study highlights the need for collaborative work and interdependence between two regions fostering context-specific approaches to textile waste management that is aligned to technological innovation, policy reform and social inclusion to globally improve sustainability in apparel industry.

Keywords: {'name': 'Environmental Sociology Theory'}, {'name': 'Sustainability'}, {'name': 'Apparel industry'}, {'name': 'Textile waste management'}

Authors & affiliations

Sthembile Ngubo
Durban University of Technology

Winiswa Mavutha
Durban University of Technology

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