The global fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to waste. Recycling, reusing and upcycling is necessary to reduce the environmental footprint of the fashion industry. This was stated by Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Musadik Masood Malik while addressing an important dissemination meeting, on circularity and the used textiles trade in Pakistan. The event was organised by a non-governmental organization in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the European Union.

He said, “Millions of tons of clothing are ending up in landfills each year. However, promoting the used textiles trade is vital to mitigate this issue by diverting pre-owned clothing from landfills. The growing significance of Pakistan’s used textile trade has become more than just a commercial activity. It serves as a model for environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic resilience”. He said that in 2024, Pakistan’s used textile exports exceeded USD 283 million, a notable increase from USD 255 million in 2023. Pakistan remains one of the top three global re-exporters of second-hand clothing, contributing nearly 60% of the country’s total textile exports. The trade in used textiles is critical for the millions of Pakistanis, particularly the 39% living below the poverty line, providing access to affordable clothing, especially in extreme weather conditions.

The Minister also highlighted Pakistan’s impressive circularity performance in the used textiles sector, as less than 1% of used textile imports end up in landfills. With Faisalabad processing over 85% of the country’s textile waste, Pakistan’s recyclers handle between 1,000 to 3,000 tons annually. Despite limited resources, Pakistan has demonstrated exceptional efficiency in turning waste into resources—making a substantial contribution to global climate action, Mr. Malik added. The federal minister and said, “the Ministry for Climate Change is working on the country’s first-ever National Circular Economy Policy in collaboration with different relevant stakeholders. This policy aims to shift the country’s industrial approach towards greener, circular practices, with the used textiles sector recognized as a national success story”.

Meanwhile, he urged the European Union to consider the role of countries like Pakistan in the global textile waste crisis. “While tariffs, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), are part of climate responsibility, incentives must accompany regulation,” he said. “Pakistan is managing a textile waste crisis largely generated by the Global North, and we do so without recycling fees or support. This is a service to the global environment that deserves acknowledgment and support.”

Minister Malik further emphasised that global support is crucial to promoting equitable development and greening the global value chain. He called on developed nations to recognize and support sectors, such as Pakistan’s textile waste recycling efforts, which are helping to convert waste into valuable resources and contribute to global sustainability.

“By reinforcing the importance of partnerships, policies, and a shared commitment to a fair and circular future. "Pakistan has shown that circularity is possible, even with limited resources. Imagine what more we can achieve with the right global support," federal minister Musadik Malik highlighted.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)