New Scottish fund aims to boost textiles sustainability

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
Jun 28, 2022

The Scottish textiles industry is being funded by a £2 million injection to help “reduce its environmental burden”.

Zero Waste Scotland and the Scottish Government have launched their ‘Circular Textiles Fund’ that will go directly to aid businesses across the industry -- from fashion to upholstery.

The scheme comes as Zero Waste Scotland’s Carbon Metric report shows textiles have “an extremely high environmental impact… which make up just 4% of waste by weight [but accounts] for nearly a third (32%) of the carbon impact of Scotland’s household waste”. 

The Fund will support “innovative projects that have what it takes to be part of Scotland's circular economy, in which resources are valued and made to last”. 

Applications to the fund can be from individual businesses or collaborations to achieve these objectives: reduce demand for new textiles; employ sustainable manufacturing processes; and reduce in-life environmental impacts. 

Iain Gulland, Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “As a nation, we need to rethink the way we make, buy, and use products and take action to consume more responsibly. Businesses have a key role to play in facilitating that shift, helping customers make more sustainable purchasing decisions while also contributing to a greener economy. 

He added: “With textiles responsible for such a significant chunk of the carbon footprint of Scotland’s household waste it’s vital that we move away from a throwaway approach to products and materials and make things last instead. The Circular Textiles Fund is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to be part of the solution.” 

Lorna Slater, Circular Economy Minister, added: “From fashion to furniture, there are huge opportunities for businesses with creative ideas to help address that problem. Alongside our Circular Economy Bill, this will help grow the number of sustainable businesses in Scotland and help prevent textiles from ending up in landfill or incineration.”