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We explore marketing activity at the micro level as it contributes to the co-creation of sustainability and leads to transformational shifts towards sustainable futures. Utilising a value co-creation lens our study implements a novel four phase case research process. Three sustainable fashion brands are analysed via brand-generated content on their Instagram accounts, through interviews with thirty self-confessed brand enthusiasts and using consumer focus groups. Analysis provides insights into how sustainability is co-created between brands and consumers demonstrating that marketing and brands have the power to harness sustainability and instigate change. The paper contributes an innovative 'Co-creating sustainable futures' framework providing a platform to implement marketing activity and future research by marketing/brand managers and researchers committed to sustainability and initiating transformation towards sustainable futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines how consumers value, over time, their possessions in the domestic space. We focus on the large amount of clothing kept in the household, given the critical issues of sustainability that are raised by this practice. Using in-depth interviews and wardrobe ethnography, we unpack the role of rituals in consumers' valuation of these possessions. The findings show that some possessions become dormant due to various failures in rituals. Dormant possessions are those pending revalorisation, which may be carried out by consumers themselves or through their use of services, specifically those related to circular economy. We identify and theorise reinvestment rituals, a new form of rituals that allow for revalorisation and extension of the life of a possession. This research highlights the value dynamics at play in the consumer – possession relationship and has implications for a strong sustainability approach on the part of consumers, managers, and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite advancements in sustainable apparel design, upcycling practices still face challenges limiting creativity and efficiency. This study develops a Modular Redesign System (MRS) using 3D digital technology to improve the upcycling process. The MRS was created with CLO3D and Aftereffects, producing ten redesign samples and demonstration videos. In-depth interviews with South Korean upcycling apparel designers were conducted to assess the system’s perceived effectiveness and explore key issues in upcycling design. The MRS involves four stages: Selection, Virtualisation, Virtual Ideation, and Construction and Fitting. Findings highlight the MRS’s ability to enhance ideation, reduce material waste, and save time and costs, offering practical solutions to current challenges in apparel redesign. The MRS also shows potential for mass customisation, serving as an effective communication tool for personalised upcycling services. This study bridges a gap in the literature by integrating 3D virtual simulation with modular design to advance sustainable and efficient upcycling practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research investigated the impact of psychosocial predictors (e.g. attitude, social and moral norm, perceived behavioral control, intention) on sustainable clothing purchasing. To date, no studies considered whether proenvironmental self-identity moderates the effects of these predictors on behavior. In this study, we adopted an intrapersonal approach and a longitudinal design to assess the moderating role of proenvironmental self-identity in predicting intentions and behaviors, considering gender differences. 250 participants completed an initial questionnaire on the predictors of three sustainable clothing purchasing. A month later, they filled out a second questionnaire to self-assess these behaviors. The results showed that social and internalized norms (moral norms) were notably influential of participants' intentions. Affective attitude influenced behavior positively, while cognitive attitude had a negative influence. When considering the moderating role of proenvironmental self-identity, significant gender differences emerged. Women with a weak proenvironmental self-identity expressed a higher intention to purchase sustainable clothing when they had high affective attitudes and descriptive norm but low cognitive attitudes. Women with a strong proenvironmental self-identity intended to purchase sustainable clothing when they had high moral norms and cognitive attitudes but low descriptive norm. Man with a weak proenvironmental self-identity and high positive affective attitude increased their future SCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoosporic fungi, also called chytrids, produce single-celled motile spores with flagellar swimming tails (zoospores). 1,2 These fungi are key components of aquatic food webs, acting as pathogens, saprotrophs, and prey. 3,4,5,6,7,8 Little is known about the swimming behavior of fungal zoospores, a crucial factor governing dispersal, biogeographical range, ecological function, and infection dynamics. 6,9 Here, we track the swimming patterns of zoospores from 12 evolutionarily divergent species of zoosporic fungi from across seven orders of the Chytridiomycota and the Blastocladiomycota. We report two major swimming patterns that correlate with the cytoskeletal ultrastructure of these zoospores. Specifically, we show that species without major cytoplasmic tubulin components swim in a circular fashion, while species with prominent cytoplasmic tubulin structures swim in a pattern akin to a random walk (move-stop-redirect-move). We confirm cytoskeletal architecture by performing fluorescence confocal microscopy across all 12 species. We then treat representative species with variant swimming behaviors and cytoplasmic-cytoskeletal arrangements with tubulin-stabilizing (Taxol) and depolymerizing (nocodazole) pharmacological compounds. We observed that when treating the "random walk" species with nocodazole, their swimming behavior changed to a circular-swimming pattern. Confocal imaging of the nocodazole-treated zoospores demonstrates that these cells maintain flagellum tubulin structures but lack their characteristic cytoplasmic tubulin structures. Our data demonstrate that the capability of zoospores to perform "complex" random-walk movement is linked to the presence of prominent cytoplasmic tubulin structures and suggest a link between cytology, sensory systems, and swimming behavior in a diversity of zoosporic fungi. [Display omitted] • Fungal zoospores swim using either a random-walk or a circular pattern • The random walk is linked with the presence of major cytoplasmic tubulin structures • Nocodazole-treated random-walk zoospores transform into circular swimmers • In Blastocladiella, ultrastructure, movement, and light-sensing organelles are linked Galindo et al. find that fungal zoospores swim in either circular or random-walk patterns, the latter being linked with the presence of major cytoplasmic tubulin structures. Random-walk zoospores treated with a tubulin-depolymerizing drug turn into circular swimmers. They note a relationship between cytology, movement, and light-sensing organelles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The negative consequences of fast fashion have heightened concerns about the fashion industry's sustainability. Bacterial Cellulose (BC) has emerged as a promising biomaterial for sustainable applications in textiles and leather. However, dehydrated BC's low thickness and high stiffness pose limitations, reducing its appeal in diverse fields, including fashion, healthcare, etc. To address this challenge, a Plasticized BC-based interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) leatherette is investigated using an innovative 2-in-1 thickening process and a following softening step using Glycerol. The thickening process involves a novel "self-thickening" technique based on cellulosic mercerization and a formation of interpenetrating polymer network structure using BC and Silica skeleton. The fabricated BC-based material exhibits unique IPN structure and significant increase in BC thickness to 1.83±0.10 mm (≈ 16.64 times thicker), areal density to 2034.46±37.58 g/m 2 (≈ 16.33 times denser), moisture content of 31.09±0.48%, moisture regain of 45.12±1.01%, flexural rigidity of 3291.29±100.88 μ Nm, and improved bending modulus of 6.48±0.20 MPa (≈ 1035.27 times lower) compared to those of untreated BC. Furthermore, the durability of the Plasticized BC-based IPN leatherette is evaluated through five washing cycles, with the material retaining approximately 75.96%, 66.61%, 82.98%, and 77.39% of its unwashed thickness, areal density, moisture content, and regain, respectively. This study contributes to the value of BC-based materials in the textile and leather industries, offering a sustainable alternative to existing materials and production processes. Moreover, developing this novel 2-in-1 thickening process establishes a foundation for future research on BC functionalization in various applications, thereby contributing to sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study considers ways to increase the consumption of sustainable fashion given the significant environmental and social damages associated with the industry. A series of experiments were conducted examining the impacts of choice architecture (nudges) under field conditions in collaboration with one of Israel's largest shopping centers. This study sought to identify which interventions at the retail level successfully motivate sustainable fashion behavioral change regarding purchases and willingness to pay more, along with agreement with several statements regarding the climate crisis and sustainable fashion. Among the types of nudges examined in this field study were providing information, increasing accessibility to sustainable alternatives and appealing to social identity in relation to demographics and green self-image. This study found that offering alternatives to consumers constituted the most effective way to "nudge" consumers toward more sustainable purchasing behavior. Nonetheless, this does not negate the contribution of providing information and strengthening social norms regarding sustainable fashion. Additionally, in all groups, most participants reported that they did not know how to distinguish between sustainable and non-sustainable fashion, nor did they believe that the clothes they purchased were actually sustainable. The findings emphasize the need for policies that will increase the accessibility of sustainable fashion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the outbreak and ongoing spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, a wave of post-COVID-19 zeitgeist has emerged worldwide. From the perspective of fashion trends, an increasing number of consumers are demanding higher standards of health, environmental friendliness, and sustainability. Over the past 10 years, the integration of technology in clothing has facilitated continuous updates in both functionality and aesthetics. This article aims to explore the relationship between clothing technology and sustainable fashion in the post-COVID-19 era, seeking to enhance the development and innovation of sustainable fashion through the empowerment of clothing technology. This study conducts extensive research on the literature and online case studies, categorizing empowered sustainable fashion technology design cases into six major categories and four directional themes. It introduces an innovative sustainable fashion design assessment model, PCBS (Product, Customer, Business, Society). Subsequently, the knowledge framework is applied in design practice alongside consumer research to validate the system's usability. Furthermore, this research synthesizes and summarizes the methods through which fashion technology can support sustainable fashion in the post-pandemic era. Designers and practitioners can reference these insights for more advanced sustainable design initiatives, thereby promoting a lower-carbon and environmentally friendly system that drives global innovation and development in a sustainable society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper cross-fertilizes regional innovation and place branding studies using the firm as the focal point of theoretical and empirical exploration. It explores how business innovation strategies connect place brands and regional innovation dynamics and highlights the role of place brands in symbolic knowledge exchange and co-production. The sustainability-oriented innovation strategy of a luxury fashion firm (Rifò) in the Prato textile district of Tuscany, Italy, is analysed. The firm's place brand appropriation assists symbolic knowledge absorption, interpretation and recombination with synthetic knowledge. The place brand supports the firm's operationalization of a context-specific, distinctive, actionable heritage-driven innovation approach to sustainability. Place brand formation results from the firm's recodification of local heritage into novel place meanings and images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to bridge the gap between sustainable fashion and customer purchase intentions by analysing the current trends and offering techniques to increase sustainable fashion awareness and overcome price consumption issues among Generation Z (Gen Z) consumers. A mixed methods approach was employed in this study consisting of online surveys and focus groups surrounding the topic of sustainable apparel consumption among the Gen Z age group. Focus groups served to lead to an online survey of questions to help better understand the phenomena on an exploratory scale. Three focus groups of eight to ten volunteers each aged 18–25 from a large Midwestern university took part in 60-minute discussions regarding their understanding of fast fashion and their purchase intentions/awareness of ethical issues within the apparel industry. Online surveys were conducted through the online platform Qualtrics consisting of 29 questions with a total of 445 participants ranging from 18 to 23 years old taking part in the online survey. Main themes found in the focus groups are the idea of shopping second hand, laziness among consumers and the quality of garments. Surveys found that this age group was willing to pay up to 25 per cent more for a sustainable apparel item and that uniqueness of the item was of utmost importance. Implications for brands and retailers as well as academics are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fashion industry's heightened focus on sustainable production has enhanced the emergence of varied eco-conscious procedures such as re-upcycling. Nonetheless, the multiple steps required for such procedures often lead to more expensive products, consequently lowering consumers' motivation to purchase such products. Do-it-yourself (DIY) fashion videos can motivate individuals to try DIY fashion, while promoting sustainable production and consumption of clothing. This study tested if DIY fashion videos could be used to change the perception among Thai youth on the DIY sustainable fashion. An Instagram profile named 'Broke Vogue' was created and it shared a variety of DIY fashion-related contents and activities. The page gained 300 followers during the six weeks it was active. The profile also invited participants to take a survey to evaluate their attitudes towards DIY fashion. This served as the data source of this study. The majority of participants in the survey were university students (N = 102, 73.5 per cent women). The results confirmed that participants developed a positive opinion concerning DIY fashion after visiting the page. However, it also strengthened some negative stereotypes as participants were more confident that DIY fashion was not appropriate for senior citizens or citizens with financial issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fast fashion industry, characterized by its reliance on rapid consumption cycles, and short-lived garment use, has raised major environmental concerns. This industry generates over 92 million tons of waste and consumes 79 trillion liters of water annually, driven by rising consumer demand for fast fashion. As such, there is a pressing need to transition from the current wasteful fast fashion purchasing behavior to more sustainable behavior. Despite extensive research on sustainable purchasing behavior, there is still a gap in our understanding of the predictors of consumers' sustainable fast fashion purchasing behavior. To address this gap, our study utilized a survey questionnaire to collect data from a convenience sample of 123 South African consumers. We expanded the theory of planned behavior (TPB) by incorporating sustainability awareness as a background factor in the hypothesized theoretical model. We also investigated the relationships among the TPB constructs (attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control), sustainability awareness, and sustainable fast fashion purchasing behavior. By employing hierarchical regression within the extended TPB framework, we found that perceived behavioral control mediated the relationship between sustainability awareness and sustainable fast fashion purchasing behavior. Further, perceived behavioral control and its interaction with attitude significantly predicted sustainable fast fashion purchasing behavior, while sustainability awareness significantly predicted perceived behavioral control. Notably, our findings reveal that lower perceived behavioral control is associated with a stronger positive relationship between attitude and sustainable fast fashion purchasing behavior. These findings have important implications for theory and practice, and provide suggestions for future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high demand for the fashion industry currently results in the emergence of the fast fashion phenomenon, prompting consumers to spend more money on unnecessary clothing. This leads to excessive clothing production, which impacts pollution, waste, and emissions. The phenomenon of excessive fashion consumption and production can be mitigated by utilizing second-hand clothing products. Purchasing second-hand clothing products can be classified as part of mindful consumption behavior. The aim of this study is to examine the direct and indirect effects of Electronic Word of Mouth on mindful consumption behavior in the context of local second-hand clothing purchases. Additionally, this study also tests the mediating effects of consumer engagement and environmental attitudes. This research is quantitative in nature, employing data collection through questionnaires from local second-hand clothing consumers within the active workforce demographic (aged 18–59) in Indonesia, yielding 205 respondents. The data analysis technique used is structural equation modeling-partial least square (SEM-PLS). The research findings indicate a significant positive direct influence of Electronic Word of Mouth on environmental attitudes, consumer engagement, and mindful consumption behavior. Moreover, there is a notable positive direct influence between consumer engagement and mindful consumption behavior, while no significant influence is found in the relationship between environmental attitudes and mindful consumption behavior. Furthermore, the study confirms the mediating effect of consumer engagement between Electronic Word of Mouth and mindful consumption behavior but does not support a significant mediating effect of environmental attitudes on local second-hand clothing mindful consumption behavior. Article Highlights: This study explores the effects of electronic word-of-mouth on mindful consumption behavior in the context of Indonesian local second-hand clothing purchases. This research uses quantitative methodology through questionnaires filled by 205 local second-hand clothing consumers in Indonesia. The result shows that consumer engagement has effect on electronic word-of-mouth and mindful consumption behavior but does not affect environmental attitudes of the Indonesian second-hand clothing consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe fashion industry has become one of the most polluting industries in the world, driven by the rise of the Fast Fashion production model. In Israel, as in most developed countries, the production model of Fast Fashion conquered the Israeli market and had a profound effect on it. In response to the rise of Fast Fashion in Israel, an increasingly significant counter-movement is emerging. The sustainable fashion movement in Israel draws its inspiration from a global movement, but its roots can also be found in Judaism. Traditions, such as the year of Shmita (“sabbatical year”) which forbids excessive agriculture; and the Shatnez ban—which forbids the production of clothing made of wool and linen blends, facilitates the recycling of clothes more easily and at relatively low costs; as well as adherence to labor laws that prohibit slavery. This article explores sustainable fashion in Israel and its relationship with Judaism, reviewing Israeli businesses, such as secondhand clothing stores, local designers that produce sustainably, and upcycling designers. This descriptive study aims to offer insights gained through the examination of ancient and modern values on conscious fashion consumption and it’s potential to encourage sustainability in the fashion world in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industria Textila is the property of Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Textile si Pielarie and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In a world increasingly concerned about environmental issues, the fashion industry is witnessing a notable shift in consumer behaviour towards recycled clothing and sustainable fashion. This trend reflects a heightened awareness of the detrimental impact of traditional clothing production on the planet. Annually, the fashion sector consumes 79 billion cubic meters of water, accounting for approximately 20% of global water usage, and emits 1.7 billion tons of CO2, nearly 10% of global emissions, while generating 92 million tons of textile waste. Given the projected growth of the global fashion industry, addressing its substantial environmental and social impacts is crucial. Integrating sustainability practices across the supply chain is imperative. Consumers play a pivotal role in driving this change by making informed choices, demanding transparency from brands, and supporting sustainable products and practices. This article explores consumer behaviour towards recycled clothing, in order to understand the factors that influence consumers' purchase decisions and to identify the barriers and motivations that affect their attitude towards it of recycled clothing. In order to achieve this goal, the study "Consumer Behaviour towards Recycled Clothing in the Republic of Moldova. By elucidating perceptions and behaviours, this research offers insights crucial for fostering responsible consumption and advancing sustainable fashion strategies in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examines the relationship between green psychological benefits and green apparel purchase behavior using stimulus–organism–response (S-O-R) theory and a serial multiple mediation model. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from 250 Lithuanians using a standardized questionnaire. Convergent and discriminant validity analyses were performed to ensure validity and reliability, and variable relationships were assessed using structural equation modeling. Findings: The findings revealed utilitarian environmental benefits and warm glow benefits positively impacted Generation Z's (Gen Z's) attitudes toward green apparel. In contrast, the self-expressive benefits had no effect. In addition, attitude and purchase intention significantly predict green apparel purchase behavior. Attitudes and purchase intentions are crucial as serial mediators between green psychological benefits and green apparel purchase behavior. Originality/value: These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers in Lithuania and highlight the importance of emphasizing the psychological benefits to encourage the purchase of green apparel. Moreover, policymakers and marketers should design apparel products that appeal to Gen Z, promoting green apparel adoption. By leveraging the stimulus–organism–response (S-O-R) theory, this research contributes to understanding pro-environmental behavior. It bridges the gap between attitudes, intentions and actual behavior in sustainable fashion research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Aim of this study is to examine how environmental concern and perceived consumer effectiveness (PCE) mediate the effect of consumer optimism and pessimism on Generation Z's intention to purchase sustainable clothes. Design/methodology/approach: A survey was administered to 247 Gen Z students using a quantitative methodology. Structural equation modeling was used for hypothesis testing. Findings: The examination of findings provides support for the idea that both optimism and pessimism have a direct impact on environmental concerns and perceived consumer effectiveness. Additionally, it reveals that environmental concerns and perceived consumer effectiveness play a positive role in influencing sustainable clothing purchases. Originality/value: This study is one of the first marketing studies to explore the relationship between personality traits, environmental concerns and the intention to purchase sustainable clothing, providing insight into their relationship. Research limitations/implications: Some methodological limitations impact the contributions of this cross-sectional investigation. It only tested a few variables predicting the intention to purchase sustainable clothing. Practical implications: This research provides decision-makers, including marketers, with insights on leveraging dispositional traits to increase consumers' purchase intention of sustainable clothing. Results: Environmental concerns and PCE have a positive effect on sustainable clothing purchases, which are influenced by both optimism and pessimism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Currently, the push-in technique through the corneal tunnel using a blunt-tip spatula is used to insert an artificial corneal endothelium (EndoArt) into the anterior chamber (AC). The device is useful for patients with bullous keratopathy; however, it may be difficult to manipulate the very thin implant through hazy cornea. Unlike DMEK graft, it cannot be stained and the F-mark is faint. So, visualizing and orienting the implant is a real challenge especially through a hazy cornea and inadequate AC visualization. Therefore, alternative EndoArt implantation techniques are needed in patients with advanced endothelial dysfunction to avoid complications. Purpose: To report an alternative technique for EndoArt implantation using a Busin glide. Technique: The EndoArt was loaded onto the Busin glide with the concave side of the EndoArt facing upward and was then pulled/pushed into the Busin glide opening. After the Descemet's membrane and endothelium were detached and removed in a circular fashion in a patient with advanced corneal endothelial decompensation, the Busin glide was inserted into the corneal incision, and the EndoArt was slowly pulled into the AC using retractor forceps. Finally, the air was injected into the AC. Conclusion: The Busin glide-assisted pull-through technique smoothly and securely inserted the EndoArt into the AC without upside-down attachment. This alternative technique can be useful for patients with a history of repeat intraocular surgeries or trauma with severe corneal edema to avoid potential complications such as epithelial implantation cysts or downgrowth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of the article is to identify the factors determining the intention of purchasing sustainable fashion. The article answers three research questions:1) What observable variables can create dimensions of sustainable fashion consumption? 2) Are the created dimensions characterized by appropriate validity and reliability? 3) Which dimensions have the strongest impact on purchase intentions for a sustainable fashion? Design/methodology/approach: To achieve the aim of the article, literature and empirical research was conducted. Literature research was conducted based on the determinants of sustainable consumption of clothing products in connection with the life cycle of such product. Empirical research was conducted based on a survey on a sample of 270 respondents from Poland. The collected data was analysed using structural equation modelling (pls-SEM). Thus, the scales measuring the desired dimensions were validated. Additionally, a model was created which allowed us to find out what determines the intention of purchasing sustainable fashion. Findings: The created model indicates that the intentions to buy sustainable fashion are most strongly influenced by: a) the choice of second-hand clothing, b) the choice of sustainable producers, c) the choice of sustainable packaging, and d) the involvement in repairing clothes. A predictor that turned out to be statistically insignificant is the choice of sustainable fabrics. Practical implications: We consider our results regarding the validation of scales measuring dimensions of sustainable consumption of a clothing product to be important. The scales we proposed proved to be valid and reliable. Therefore, these scales may be useful for research on consumer maturity in the field of sustainable fashion. Originality/value: The originality of our work is a set of observable variables measuring the dimensions of sustainable consumption of a clothing product. The set of these variables can be used as a guide for consumers who want to make sustainable purchasing decisions regarding clothing products that are environmentally friendly and limit the exploitation of people in the fashion industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-cleaning treatment is of vital importance for the practical application of functional cotton fabrics. However, developing highly efficient, eco-friendly, and durable hydrophobic and oleophobic treatment agents still remains a great challenge. Herein, inspired by the design of the inorganic–organic nanonetwork, we successfully synthesized a novel core–shell structured emulsion of nano-SiO2/fluorine-silicon polyacrylate through semi-continuous emulsion polymerization. The introduction of long-chain alkyl methacrylate octadecyl ester within the shell phase results in a more organized arrangement of fluorine atoms on the surface of cotton fabrics, leading to a rapid reduction in the surface free energy of latex film. The sample is optimized with 20 wt% dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate and 1 wt% SiO2. The nanoengineered emulsion exhibits strong adhesion and effectively transforms the hydrophilic cotton fabrics into hydrophobic (143.2°) and oleophobic (121.6°) materials. Besides, the self-cleaning characteristic can withstand 25 laundering cycles and 800 abrasion cycles with enhanced robustness. This work opens up a pathway to develop effective, green but long-lasting amphiphobic agents for functional fabrics and sustainable textiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global textile industry generates 92 million tons of waste annually, highlighting urgent environmental concerns. In India alone, 7,800 kilotonnes of textile waste are managed yearly, with 51% originating from post-consumer and 42% from pre-consumer sources. The study on textile waste management and sustainable practices among tailors and house tailors in Hisar, Haryana, India surveyed 30 respondents, including 15 tailors and 15 home tailors, revealing demographic insights such as a majority (56.6%) in the 40-55 age group and a gender disparity favoring females (63.3%). Most participants (76.6%) were married, and 53.3% had completed higher secondary education. Waste generation averaged 5-10 kg per month for 56.6% of respondents, predominantly managed through upcycling at home (63.3%) and donation (33.3%). High awareness (63.3%) of sustainable clothing practices was noted, with primary motivations including economic reasons (30.0%) and personal creativity (43.3%). The findings underscore a proactive approach towards managing clothing waste, emphasizing upcycling, and growing consumer interest in sustainable fashion choices. Addressing demographic and motivational factors is crucial for promoting effective recycling and upcycling strategies in the textile industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to propose a multilevel framework of fashion consumer ethics that unpacks how ethical consumers publicly express their identity through sustainable fashion (SF). The author explores SF's cognitive, relational and contextual dynamics, highlighting how attitude–behavior (A-B) gaps might impede consumers' ethical identity and social image alignment. Design/methodology/approach: The framework theoretically reconstructs fashion consumer ethics by integrating social intuitionism, social representation theory and the public sphere. This theorizing process sheds light on fragmented attempts found in previous research to understand how ethical consumers express their self-identity and socially represent their image through SF, avoiding A-B gaps. Findings: The theoretical propositions suggest how ethical consumers' self-concept is expressed at the cognitive level, leading to ethical commitment toward self-associated fashion brands; social image is manifested at the relational level, giving rise to consumers' ethical engagement in SF; and ethical consumers' self-verify their identity-image alignment in the public sphere, thus addressing A-B issues. Originality/value: The sociopsychological approach suggests a novel understanding of ethical consumers' individual and social representation through SF consumption. The framework interprets SF as an "aesthetic of existence," co-constructed collectively and symbolically expressed publicly. As a result, the proposed model combines different theories to introduce new causal mechanisms and constructs of ethical consumers' cognition, sociological relations and public spheres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Service Industries Journal is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Over the last decade, luxury consumers have become more aware of the adverse environmental impacts associated with their lifestyles and are transitioning toward more responsible consumption patterns. Circular economy and sustainability business strategies have become crucial for this and have attracted the attention of scholars and brands. This paper aims to assess the current state of research concerning the circular economy and sustainability within luxury fashion consumer behavior. It focuses on relevant studies published in leading peer‐reviewed English‐language journals in business, management, and economics, using keywords such as luxury, consumer, circular economy, and sustainability. This review emphasizes the substantial impact of the 9Rs of the circular economy on luxury fashion consumers while also noticing the lack of consumer‐focused research in the areas of the circular economy and sustainability. It presents a critical and thorough assessment, categorization, and analysis of the emerging literature in this field. The authors propose a deeper and more specific research agenda exploring the relationship between the circular economy, sustainability, and luxury fashion. The paper suggests potential directions for future research, emphasizing the need for theoretical, educational, and communication‐oriented studies to address the distinctive circular economy and sustainability issues within luxury fashion consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of sustainable fashion consumption among young adults in Ile-Ife, Osun State. Survey design was adopted for the study. The sample for the study was made up of 250 respondents who were selected using purposive and convenience sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Findings show that respondents have good knowledge and a positive attitude towards sustainable fashion. They revealed that sustainable fashion supports consumers to wear and maintain their clothing (85.2%) and that second-hand clothes are more sustainable (64.8%). They selected apparel that they could wear over a longer term (x̄= 4.16) and bought products packaged in recycled materials (x̄= 3.56). Some young adults choose materials that quickly go out of style, indicating a gap between knowledge and practice. There was a significant relationship between knowledge and practice of sustainable fashion. This study contributes to the growing body of research on sustainable fashion consumption and provides valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and consumers. The study concludes that there is a need for more public enlightenment programs on sustainable fashion to reinforce young adults’ shift towards eco-friendly practices. It is recommended that fashion associations should align fashion businesses with sustainable goals and products. Consumers should leverage social influence to promote eco-friendly materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast fashion, a prominent sector in global business, has come under scrutiny for its substantial clothing production and the resulting social and environmental impacts. A social and sustainable orientation in fast fashion is gaining traction with increased consumer awareness, prompting a shift in manufacturing practices. This paper, using a combination of qualitative (content analysis) and quantitative (survey) approaches, focuses on Zara and applies Stakeholder theory to confirm the positive impact of adopting social and sustainable initiatives on clients' purchase intentions. Our findings also underscore the significance of keeping stakeholders informed about the sustainable and corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken by a brand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the late twentieth century, the global fashion industry has been increasingly embracing the business model known as fast fashion. Characterised by rapid production cycles, fleeting trends, low-cost garments and large-scale production, fast fashion seems to meet consumer demand for affordable and trendy clothing. However, its environmental impact as a major polluter poses significant challenges to sustainability and circularity initiatives. This article presents the results of a systematic literature review, exploring the unsustainable consequences of fast fashion, focusing on both demand and supply side, from a geographical perspective. Using a Global North–Global South framework, it explores differences in socio-economic structures, consumption and production patterns, access to resources and environmental impacts. The analysis suggests that a fair and equitable transition towards a sustainable and circular fashion industry will require the links between business, society and nature to be reconsidered, to avoid perpetuating the inequalities associated with the global linear capitalist economy. The findings highlight the importance of both markets and institutions in sustainable growth. In the Global North, the most frequently discussed topics relate to investment and research and development with respect to new technologies or system innovations often with the support of well-structured political guidance. Conversely, in the Global sustainable initiatives tend to be scattered, country-specific and intricately tied to particular socio-economic and cultural contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability is a broad concept and sustainable consumption includes using products and services that not only meet consumer needs but also minimizes the use of natural resources. Brands use social media (SM) to engage with consumers as it enables the brand to build an emotional connection, hence a great platform to provide sustainability related messaging. Thus, using consumers' online brand-related activities (COBRA) as the theoretical framework, the purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of how sustainable brands utilize SM platforms for organization sustainability communication. Instagram and Facebook were selected for their high-frequency usage and five sustainable fashion brands were evaluated. Seven hundred and twenty-seven sustainability-related posts and 66,821 comments were analyzed using a qualitative content analysis approach, an established and credible methodology. Three months of SM posts were compiled and examined. Data was coded systematically as deemed appropriate based on the qualitative content analysis approach and resulted in 20 sub-themes across eight thematic categories. The findings of this study provide implications for enhancing stakeholder engagement through (1) content strategy (e.g. video content in sustainability messaging), (2) imagery (e.g. the use of lifestyle content and influencers), and (3) messaging strategy (e.g. educational posts that provide insight into brands' sustainability initiatives). Overall, Instagram (vs. Facebook) was preferred by brands. Brands that post educational messaging, specifically information related to sustainability along with video content, led to higher consumer engagement. Educational messaging yielded high levels of engagement when lifestyle related imagery was partnered with sustainability. Sustainable brands should focus on working with influencers that align with their brand philosophy and values. Brands should post discounts and incentives to promote sustainable purchases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article assesses the awareness level of youth towards the aspects related to sustainable apparel production and consumption in North India. The study examines the difference in awareness among male and female university students and identified factors that affect youth awareness and behaviour, including personal, family and economic variables.

The aim of this paper is to analyse emerging trends in the fashion industry, focusing on the growing role the circular economy is playing in introducing a new business paradigm based on the so-called "3 Rs" principle: reduce, reuse and recycle. Six interesting case studies are presented; three focus on fashion companies (Rifò, Rapanui and Cingomma) that base their business model on this circular economy principle, while the other three relate to companies (Orange Fiber, Ananas Anam, Due di Latte) using sustainable materials to produce fashion items. The careful selection of raw materials and the application of technological innovation in the production system allow companies to implement new sustainable approaches to production, resulting in two critical outcomes: recycled fashion products that can be reintegrated into the environment and the reuse of products that can be revalued without rather than wasted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The denim fabric industry has experienced exponential growth and escalating concerns regarding sustainable production and recycling practices. The wide utilization of indigo dye in denim manufacturing presents significant challenges owing to its intricate chemical structure and inherent resistance to degradation. Improper disposal of waste denim fabric and the release of indigo dye impose severe ecological ramifications. In this study, we explore the productive application of electrochemistry to recycle indigo dye from waste denim fabric while repurposing the electrolyte for denim dyeing. Notably, the separation of indigo from waste denim textiles reaches 82.34%. It is calculated that 21.59 g of indigo can be recovered from 1 kg of denim waste. Recovered indigo can be reused for cotton yarn dyeing. In the experiment, indigo was recovered from 0.03 square meters of denim waste, and the K / S value of the yarn was up to 2.997 after five dyeing cycles. The loss of fabric strength after recycling is as low as 13.32%, which has little effect on secondary fabric recycling. Our recycling method reduces the waste of 978.41 g of waste fabric and 21.59 g of indigo per kilo compared to conventional treatment. This research provides compelling scientific evidence supporting adopting a closed-loop system within denim production, underlining the potential for environmentally conscious and economically viable practices in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The second-hand clothing (SHC) market has seen dynamic expansion, driven by shifts in consumer attitudes. However, motivations underlying customer engagement in this market remain largely unexplored. Accordingly, this study investigates factors driving consumer sentiment towards buying used clothing. Data were collected in 2023 from a sample of 254 European consumers. The results show that positive attitudes towards SHC are associated with high levels of economic, hedonic (treasure hunting) and ethical motivations, while strong fashion interest and materialism seem to coincide with more negative evaluations of SHC. Interestingly, treasure hunting motivation emerged as the strongest driver of SHC attitudes, surpassing both economic and ethical motivations, which were similar in strength. However, mediation analysis revealed complex interaction patterns among the attitudinal variables, with the potential of reversing the direction of average regression weights for individuals as well as subgroups of customers. This study offers a more nuanced understanding of consumer behavior in the SHC market. It provides practical recommendations for the marketing strategies of SHC vendors, and lays the groundwork for future research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular economy strategies may appear practical for business but are complex in application. Country-specific situations, taking into consideration the cultural dimensions, aid the practicality of such strategies. As part of a longitudinal research, this study sought to identify and evaluate circular strategies that could be integrated into selected fashion SMEs in Ghana. An in-depth qualitative case study was adopted to engage nineteen owner-designers of SMEs through interviews and observations. The owner-designers must have formal businesses, have been running their retail stores during the last decade and operate within the two major cities in Ghana where population growth supports economic activities. Life extension strategies were adopted for the study. The indications were that the majority of ownerdesigners of fashion SMEs, although practicing some circular strategies unknowingly, were not motivated to formally integrate the practice into their businesses. Cost, time, labour and consumer attitudes and behaviour were factors considered to undermine the effectiveness of adopting and implementing circular strategies in these firms. Creation of awareness of circular strategies and models for their implementation are needed to enable practitioners to imbibe circular economy principles in fashion SMEs in Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The high demand for the fashion industry currently results in the emergence of the fast fashion phenomenon, prompting consumers to spend more money on unnecessary clothing. This leads to excessive clothing production, which impacts pollution, waste, and emissions. The phenomenon of excessive fashion consumption and production can be mitigated by utilizing second-hand clothing products. Purchasing second-hand clothing products can be classified as part of mindful consumption behavior. The aim of this study is to examine the direct and indirect effects of Electronic Word of Mouth on mindful consumption behavior in the context of local second-hand clothing purchases. Additionally, this study also tests the mediating effects of consumer engagement and environmental attitudes. This research is quantitative in nature, employing data collection through questionnaires from local second-hand clothing consumers within the active workforce demographic (aged 18–59) in Indonesia, yielding 205 respondents. The data analysis technique used is structural equation modeling-partial least square (SEM-PLS). The research findings indicate a significant positive direct influence of Electronic Word of Mouth on environmental attitudes, consumer engagement, and mindful consumption behavior. Moreover, there is a notable positive direct influence between consumer engagement and mindful consumption behavior, while no significant influence is found in the relationship between environmental attitudes and mindful consumption behavior. Furthermore, the study confirms the mediating effect of consumer engagement between Electronic Word of Mouth and mindful consumption behavior but does not support a significant mediating effect of environmental attitudes on local second-hand clothing mindful consumption behavior.

COVID-19 made significant changes in the fashion retail markets in European countries because stores were closed due to government restrictions. The study aims to examine the fashion shopping behaviour of Generation Z consumers before and during the first wave of COVID-19 and its influence on the future development of fashion shopping behaviour. Based on the literature review and knowledge gap identified, the authors developed hypotheses to examine the relationship between Fashion & Style (FAS), Sustainability (SUS), and Circular Fashion Economy (CFE) and their impact on shopping behaviour after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors analysed the results of the measurement model (n ¼ 589) and the direct and indirect mediating effect of the latent variables on the shopping frequency before (BEFORE) the pandemic and on the shopping frequency during the pandemic (DURING) and after the pandemic (AFTER). The results of the measurement model show that significant relationships exist in the proposed model, namely, the relationship between IS and SFB, FAS and SFD, SUS and SFD, SUS and CHA, FC and CHA, and SFD and CHA. Furthermore, the selected demographic variables acted as a mediator for the measurement model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fiber-reinforced biocomposites offer sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. This study investigates the development of biocomposites using coconut spathe fiber, a renewable byproduct, reinforced with corn starch and poly(vinyl alcohol). The composites demonstrated significant mechanical properties, including a tensile strength of 46.8 MPa, flexural strength of 42.1 MPa, and an impact strength of 11.2 kJ m−2. Water absorption was limited to 33.6% after 24 hours, indicating hydrolytic stability. Biodegradation tests confirmed the complete breakdown of the material in composting conditions. These findings highlight the potential of coconut spathe-based biocomposites for applications in the automotive and packaging industries, addressing the need for sustainable and biodegradable materials in place of non-degradable thermoplastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability certification is one means to address environmental and social issues present in fashion supply chains, whilst bridging the knowledge gap between brands and consumers. However, despite increased urgency to improve social, ethical and environmental practices in this industry, little is understood about how ethical fashion brands currently utilise sustainability certification, in an increasingly saturated, and often unregulated, labelling environment. This study examines choice of sustainability certifications, certification process, and use of labelling, by a range of Australasian fashion brands who promote sustainability as a core part of their customer-facing image. The research identifies a five-stage framework for sustainability certification, as well as indicating failures of current systems relative to user needs. The study develops and offers a proposal for a standardised taxonomy of fashion sustainability labelling that could be adapted, irrespective of firm size, sales revenue of garment and textile types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The textile industry is under pressure to adopt sustainable production methods because its contribution to global warming is expected to rise by 50% by 2030. One solution is to increase the use of recycled raw material. The use of recycled raw material must be considered holistically, including its environmental and economic impacts. This study examined eight scenarios for sustainable denim fabric made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fiber, conventional PET fiber, and cotton fiber. The evaluation based on the distance from average solution (EDAS) multicriteria decision‐making method was used to rank scenarios according to their environmental and economic impacts, which are assessed using life cycle assessment and life cycle costing. Allocation, a crucial part of evaluating the environmental impact of recycled products, was done using cut‐off and waste value. Life cycle assessments reveal that recycled PET fiber has lower freshwater ecotoxicity and fewer eutrophication and acidification impacts. Cotton outperformed PET fibers in human toxicity. Only the cut‐off method reduces potential global warming with recycled PET. These findings indicated that recycled raw‐material life cycle assessment requires allocation. Life cycle cost analysis revealed that conventional PET is less economically damaging than cotton and recycled PET. The scenarios were ranked by environmental and economic impacts using EDAS. This ranking demonstrated that sustainable denim fabric production must consider both economic and environmental impacts. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:2347–2365. © 2024 The Author(s). Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC). Key Points: This study investigated denim fabrics produced using recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fiber instead of virgin cotton and conventional PET fiber in eight scenarios.The life cycle cost (LCC), life cycle assessment (LCA), and evaluation based on distance from average solution methodologies were used to analyze, and a sensitivity analysis was performed to assess LCA uncertainty.Using recycled PET with the cut‐off method instead of cotton resulted in positive environmental outcomes across most categories, indicating a significant reduction in impacts such as global warming, stratospheric ozone depletion, and ionizing radiation.Using recycled PET with the waste valuation method often leads to more negative outcomes than the cut‐off method, suggesting that the allocation method plays a crucial role in determining the environmental benefits of recycled materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along the Arctic and sub-Arctic coasts of Alaska, Siberia, north-eastern China, Hokkaido, Scandinavia and Iceland, people have dressed in clothes or worn shoes made of fish skin for millennia. (Within this article, the terms fish skin and fish leather are used to indicate different processes of the same material. Fish skin: Skin indicates the superficial dermis of an animal. Fish skin is referred to as the historical raw material that is tanned following traditional methods such as mechanical, oiling and smoking tanning, using materials such as bark, brain, urine, fish eggs and corn flour. Fish leather is used to refer that the fish skin has passed one or more stages of industrial vegetable or chrome tanning production and is ready to be used to produce leather goods). These items are often decorated with a rich colour palette of natural dyes provided by nature. In this study, minerals and raw materials of plant origin were collected from riverbanks and processed by Arctic seamstresses who operated as designers, biochemists, zoologists, and climatologists simultaneously. During our research, an international team of fashion, tanning and education specialists used local Arctic and sub-Arctic flora from Sweden, Iceland, and Japan to dye fish leather. Several plants were gathered and sampled on a small scale to test the process and determine the colours they generated based on the historical literature and verbal advice from local experts. This paper describes the process and illustrates the historical use of natural dyes by the Arctic groups originally involved in this craft, building on the traditional cultural heritage that has enabled us to develop sustainable dyeing processes. The results are promising and confirm the applicability of these local plants for dyeing fish skins, providing a basis for a range of natural dye colours from local Arctic flora. The aim is to develop a moderate-sized industrial production of fish leather in this colour palette to replace current unsustainable chemical dyeing processes. This project represents an innovation in material design driven by traditional technologies, addressing changes in interactions between humans and with our environment. The results indicate that new materials, processes, and techniques are often the fruitful marriage of fashion and historical research of traditional methods, helping the industry move towards a more sustainable future.

Environmental concerns promote demand for biodegradable packaging on a global scale. Jute fiber packaging could be a viable and sustainable alternative to pure synthetic materials. In this study, sustainable antimicrobial jute-polyethylene nonwoven fabric is developed by the heat press of jute web and polyethylene pellets. The performance of the developed samples was evaluated by analyzing their morphological, mechanical, thermal, moisture management, and antibacterial properties. SEM confirmed the homogeneous interfacial adhesion between jute-polyethylene. FTIR spectra proved the existence of jute, polyethylene, and peppermint oil in the developed samples. Mechanical property was investigated using a universal strength tester while tensile strength and elongation (%) were sufficient. The low thermal conductivities were observed in the samples. The moisture management tester confirmed the unavailability of the moisture in the inner surface from the outer surface. Furthermore, the samples exhibited significant antibacterial properties because of the application of peppermint essential oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]