The linear “take-make-waste” model of the textile sector is increasingly recognised as unsustainable. In response, a new paper addresses the first-mile logistics of post-consumer textile (PCT) collection as a critical yet under-studied part of closing the loop. Their work focuses on the strategic assessment of collection value chains: how textiles, once discarded by consumers, are collected, sorted, and prepared for onward recycling or reuse within a circular economy framework.
Research
The key research questions revolve around: (1) what collection strategies exist for PCT at the first mile and how effective are they from a circular-value perspective, and (2) what strategic decisions (such as the location of collection points, sorting infrastructure, and stakeholder collaborations) drive performance in terms of cost, quality of stream, and circular value capture. The authors position their analysis within the broader shift from traditional forward flows to reverse logistics and closed-loop supply chains.
Methodologically, the paper combines a strategic value-chain lens with empirical insights. It draws on interviews with industry actors, mapping of collection value flows, and strategic classification of first-mile collection models. Although detailed quantitative models are not the main focus, the analytical emphasis is on strategic decisions, enabling conditions, barriers, and enablers for high-value collection of textiles. The study highlights how collection infrastructure decisions – for instance, scattered drop-boxes versus consolidated collection hubs – impact both logistics cost and the quality of collected textiles. Sorting quality early in the chain proves crucial: if low-quality or contaminated streams enter the recycling process, the circular value is compromised.
Findings
Findings from the paper underscore several key strategic principles:
• Segmentation and coordination: Different consumer segments (households versus commercial discard) and apparel types require tailored collection channels. Generic one-size approaches hinder stream quality.
• Infrastructure location and aggregation: Strategically locating drop-off points, intermediate hubs, and routing collection flows can reduce cost and avoid degradation of material quality.
• Sorting and grading up front: Early investment in sorting and grading, for instance, separating high-quality cotton from blended or contaminated fibres, enhances downstream recycling readiness and value.
• Stakeholder alignment: Effective first-mile collection depends on cooperation among municipalities, collection agencies, retailers, and recyclers. Incentives, feedback loops, and transparency enable higher performance.
• Data and traceability: Reliable data on volumes, quality, and flows are essential for informed strategic decision-making. Digital tracking and transparency optimise the first-mile collection chain.
For practitioners (especially in regions like the Netherlands, where urban logistics, circular economy, and textiles are closely linked), the study offers actionable strategic guidance. Municipalities planning to scale textile collection should not just add boxes but consider spatial placement, stream differentiation, sorting capacity, and feedback to brands and recyclers to maintain high-value flows. From a policy and planning perspective, the study emphasizes the integration of collection infrastructure into circular economy roadmaps and urban logistics frameworks, given the interplay between consumer behavior, urban space, routing, and waste logistics costs.
Key take-aways
- The first mile determines the success of textile circularity; collection quality defines recycling potential.
- Spatial planning and logistics coordination are as important as recycling technology.
- Municipalities should integrate textile collection into broader urban logistics and circular economy strategies.
- Transparency, data sharing, and digital tracking are essential for managing material quality and costs.
- Collaboration between public authorities, industry, and consumers enables higher-value textile recovery.
This article makes a valuable contribution by highlighting the strategic role of first-mile textile collection in achieving circularity. Strategic choices at the collection stage set the quality baseline for the entire value chain.