Building a Sustainable ProductMaterials, Sourcing and Manufacturing

This chapter guides fashion entrepreneurs through sustainable textile sourcing and manufacturing, contrasting the industry’s wasteful ‘take-make-waste’ linear model with a regenerative circular economy framework. It dissects the production process from raw fibre to finished fabric, explaining the complex, multi-tiered supply chain that makes transparency a significant challenge. The text provides a detailed evaluation of various sustainable fibres, including natural, regenerated and recycled options, emphasising that every material choice involves trade-offs and requires a lifecycle-based assessment. Furthermore, it covers the principles of responsible manufacturing, focusing on chemical, water and waste management, alongside the critical importance of ethical production and supply chain transparency. Ultimately, the chapter equips students with the essential knowledge to make informed decisions, embedding sustainability into the core of their product and brand values.