Circular Economy Approaches in Polymer and Textile Engineering: A Review of Recent Progress

Abstract

The growing environmental impact of polymer and textile production has highlighted the urgent need to transition from traditional linear models of “take–make–dispose” toward circular economy (CE) frameworks. Circular strategies—including recycling, reuse, remanufacturing, and sustainable material design—offer pathways to minimize waste, conserve natural resources, and reduce the carbon footprint of industrial processes. In recent years, significant innovations have emerged in polymer recovery technologies, advanced textile recycling, bio-based and biodegradable materials, and lifecycle extension strategies, enabling more sustainable production and consumption patterns. Furthermore, the integration of digital tools, artificial intelligence, and data-driven lifecycle assessment has facilitated optimized circular practices and improved resource efficiency. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current progress in circular economy approaches within polymer and textile engineering, emphasizing technological innovations, sustainability assessment, and industrial implementation. It also discusses key challenges, including economic feasibility, material degradation, and process scalability, while outlining future research directions to achieve full circularity in the sector. The insights presented aim to guide researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders in advancing sustainable, resilient, and resource-efficient polymer and textile systems.

How to cite this article:
Singh R, Kumar G. Circular Economy Approaches in Polymer and Textile Engineering: A Review of Recent Progress. J Adv Res Poly Text Engr 2026; 10(1): 13-18.