Textile waste management and material innovation: a new perspective

This review paper synthesizes research on textile waste management, sustainability, and innovative reuse of textile materials, with a focus on the Republic of North Macedonia. Over the past fifteen years, studies have examined the generation, classification, and treatment of textile waste, revealing its environmental and economic implications. The analyses cover pre-consumer, post-consumer, and industrial waste, providing valuable insights into their composition and management practices. Findings indicate that pre-consumer cutting waste dominates in the Macedonian apparel industry, primarily consisting of cotton and cotton-blend fabrics. Although up to 95% of this waste could be recycled, most still ends up in landfills due to inadequate infrastructure, limited resources, and weak regulations. Comparative research highlights the gap between local and European circular economy practices.
Recent investigations have developed new methods for quantifying waste and explored converting textile waste into sustainable insulation materials. These innovations reduce landfill dependence and create new eco-market opportunities. Overall, the research illustrates a shift from disposal toward resource valorization and circularity, reinforcing the importance of innovation, education, and public–private collaboration for a more sustainable textile industry.