AMIDST the economic turmoil, Pakistan’s textile sector is in a pickle. Since our economy stands on the brink of collapse, instead of relying on the traditional “take, make, dispose” linear models of consumption and production, shifting towards an innovative sustainable model of “reuse, refurbishment and recycling” is pertinent. Circularity is predicted to be the new normal in the 2030s. The waste produced by the linear model has had adverse environmental effects: extreme temperatures, water pollution, heavy rainfall, and waste production are some of its manifestations.
The textile industry of Pakistan has immense latent potential. Wearing “used” clothing is culturally acceptable and an economic necessity in times of soaring inflation. It has been a significant source of livelihood for millions across the various stages of the value chain- from collection and sorting to resale and recycling- particularly benefiting the informal sector. Unfortunately, the textile industry in Pakistan has not performed up to its calibre for the past decade. For the arrow on the GDP chart to shift upwards, shifting to a circular economy is the need of the hour.
Intermingling circularity with textiles is a win-win situation for both the economy and the environment. Lowering production costs and increasing resource efficiency will increase the textile industry’s international competitiveness. The Lifecycle of textiles will also increase due to less demand for renewable resources. Fewer carbon emissions and lower wastage will cumulatively diminish environmental degradation and bring us one step closer to achieving net zero carbon targets. Policymakers have an incumbent role in facilitating the shift towards a green economy. Incentives in the form of tax breaks and subsidies are mandatory to attract foreign and local businesses to integrate circular practices.
However, it must be noted that nothing works in a vacuum. Government, industry stakeholders and foreign investors must collaborate to induce meaningful results. Projects must be signed with international entities. For instance, Pakistan must take on board the United Nations, which is already actively working on this subject matter. The Government must invest in technology and infrastructure. Similarly, Public-private partnerships must drive innovation.
Pundits and policy experts must disseminate knowledge and awareness.
Platforms for knowledge exchange and dialogue are crucial for Pakistan to grasp the modern circularity techniques via Mill’s method, which, in layman’s terms, involves comparing policies with best-case scenarios. Only through learning can we implement the best policies and techniques to emerge as a booming circular economy. A circular economy is critical for Pakistan. It is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity. By implementing this multifaceted approach, Pakistan can emerge as one of the leading circular economies in the world.
—The writer is a policy advocate and researcher. She is a Public Policy Master’s graduate of King’s College London.
