Sustainable craft textile manufacturing in the Netherlands: A case study
N. Schulze Giménez (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)
M.H.G. Kuijpers – Mentor (Universiteit Leiden)
L.M. Kamp – Mentor (TU Delft - Energy and Industry)
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Abstract
We are currently experiencing the effects of overconsumption and overproduction in the textile industry due to a linear economy. To tackle this, a prospective solution emerges. A new manufacturing technique toward a circular and carbon neutral path for sustainable development: sustainable textile crafts. In this context, this study investigates the synergies between Sustainability and Craftmanship from a circular perspective, aiming to identify which sustainable business models and circular strategies could be applied to companies that are specialized in the manufacture of sustainable craft textiles in European countries. This is performed by looking at the economic, environmental, and social perspectives of a sustainable business model using the Triple Layered Business Canvas tool (TLBMC) and Circular Strategies. Data is acquired from two interviews conducted in a company that manufactures sustainable textile crafts in the Netherlands and a literature research on examples of sustainable business models and circular principles in the textile industry. The findings indicate that there is a clear misalignment on the economic side when companies that manufacture sustainable textile crafts embed sustainability and circularity in their businesses. This is because they often apply monetization strategies based on linear economy models, where more consumption is equal to more profit and thus prosperity. Lastly, three promising sustainable business models suitable for craft and aligned with sustainable practices are identified.