A conceptual framework for barriers of circular supply chains for sustainability in the textile industry

Circular economy is a contemporary concept including usage of renewable materials and technologies. The transition to the circular economy creates value through closed-loop systems, reverse logistics, eco-design, product life cycle management, and clean production. The aim of the study was to propose a holistic conceptual framework for barriers of circular supply chain for sustainability in the textile industry. Within this aim, an in-depth literature review on barriers was conducted by covering all supply chain stages and circular initiatives in textile industry. Then, a focus group study was implemented. In the focus group study, barriers related to supply chains that prevent companies to implement the circular economy were discussed and validated. As a result, a total of 25 barriers were classified under nine main categories such as (a) management and decision-making, (b) labour, (c) design challenges, (d) materials, (e) rules and regulations, (f) lack of knowledge and awareness, (g) lack of integration and collaboration, (h) cost, and (i) technical infrastructure.