Today’s Waste Is Tomorrow’s Resource
From 1% to 34%!
Today, 97% of our clothing is made from virgin materials, and 73% ends up as waste, while only 1% of textiles are recycled into high-quality new fibres. That number can rise dramatically, as shown by the Labs on Fibre project, where social enterprises, research institutions, and circular pioneers joined forces to tackle textile waste.
Centexbel and partners reveal the potential for high-quality textile recycling
Living Lab Textile Undercurrents, also known as Labs on Fibres, is a collaboration between HERW!N (coordinator), Kringwinkel Antwerpen, De Kringloopwinkel Deltagroep, Kringwinkel Ateljee, Kringwinkel VITeS, Kringwinkel WEB, We Make Hope, OXFAM, VITO, Ariadne Innovation, Blenders, and Centexbel.
Centexbel: From Waste Stream to Resource
Centexbel analysed the composition and potential of non-reusable textile streams — materials that are often still destroyed. Our findings show that 34% of these textiles have potential for high-quality recycling, provided market conditions are favourable and preparation and dismantling technologies continue to evolve.
We identified which types of textiles still hold value, which recycling technologies are applicable, and what steps are needed to reintegrate these materials into the value chain.
The report by Hilde Beeckman, our advisor for Sustainable Processes, Coating and Finishing, provides a scientific foundation for companies, policymakers, and recycling partners to invest more strategically in circular textile solutions.
Read Hilde's report
LABS on FIBRE - Waste flow analysis
In this study, we demonstrate the potential (under certain conditions) to increase the amount of textile waste that can be recycled into high-quality materials from 1% to 34%.
©2025 Hilde Beeckman, Centexbel
Project Partner Results
Smarter Logistics Cuts Costs
VITO contributed significantly by analysing various logistics scenarios using the MooV tool. Their conclusion: collaboration and centralisation pay off. By setting up four strategically located sorting hubs, mobilisation costs can be reduced by 30% compared to individual approaches.
Practical Guide for Organisations
For organisations ready to take action on textile recycling, Ariadne Innovation — supported by Blenders — developed an accessible guide. It includes six concrete steps for sorting and preparing textiles for recycling, along with sorting instructions, partner overviews, and examples of circular business models.
Benefits & Opportunities for the Textile Industry
- Greater recycling potential: Up to 34% of non-reusable textiles could be recycled into high-quality fibres — unlocking new material flows and reducing reliance on virgin resources.
- Scientific basis for investment: Centexbel’s stream analysis helps companies invest more effectively in recycling technologies and sorting processes.
- Cost savings through smart logistics: VITO’s analysis shows that centralised sorting hubs can reduce mobilisation costs by 30%.
- Access to practical tools and guides: Ariadne’s guide offers hands-on support for sorting and recycling.
- New business models and partnerships: The guide includes examples and partner lists to foster collaboration.
- Sustainable image and social impact: Recycling contributes to sustainability, CO₂ reduction, and corporate responsibility.
- Innovation and competitive edge: Companies investing in circular solutions now will lead in tomorrow’s market.
Interested? Contact us!
