Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Textiles: How the Textile Industry’s Harmful Practices can be Transformed Through Sustainable Innovations and India’s Traditional Eco-Friendly Methods


Authors : Ahinsa Jain; Soni Srivastava; Ajit Kumar Manna

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 6 - June


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5eexwucy

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25jun1159

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : The global textile industry, while economically significant, is also one of the most environmentally damaging sectors. From massive water consumption and chemical pollution to carbon emissions and unethical labor practices, its impact is far-reaching. This research explores the pressing need for sustainable and eco-friendly textile practices. It highlights India's traditional textile wisdom—such as Khadi, natural dyes, and handloom weaving—and modern innovations like bio-based fibers, waterless dyeing, and blockchain tracking. The paper also analyzes key government initiatives including the PM MITRA and PLI schemes, as well as industry-led responses. It further outlines the challenges of cost, awareness, and policy limitations that hinder sustainability. The study concludes that through collaborative efforts— combining policy support, consumer awareness, innovation, and traditional practices—the textile sector can transition toward a greener, more ethical future.

Keywords : Sustainable Textiles, Eco-Friendly Fabrics, Fast Fashion, Indian Handloom, Textile Industry Pollution, Circular Fashion, Green Innovation in Textiles.

References :

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  15. Muthu, S. S. (Ed.). (2020). Assessing the Environmental Impact of Textiles and the Clothing Supply Chain (2nd ed.). Woodhead Publishing.

The global textile industry, while economically significant, is also one of the most environmentally damaging sectors. From massive water consumption and chemical pollution to carbon emissions and unethical labor practices, its impact is far-reaching. This research explores the pressing need for sustainable and eco-friendly textile practices. It highlights India's traditional textile wisdom—such as Khadi, natural dyes, and handloom weaving—and modern innovations like bio-based fibers, waterless dyeing, and blockchain tracking. The paper also analyzes key government initiatives including the PM MITRA and PLI schemes, as well as industry-led responses. It further outlines the challenges of cost, awareness, and policy limitations that hinder sustainability. The study concludes that through collaborative efforts— combining policy support, consumer awareness, innovation, and traditional practices—the textile sector can transition toward a greener, more ethical future.

Keywords : Sustainable Textiles, Eco-Friendly Fabrics, Fast Fashion, Indian Handloom, Textile Industry Pollution, Circular Fashion, Green Innovation in Textiles.

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