SOLSTICE: An EU Project for a Circular Textile Economy
The EU-funded project SOLSTICE (May 2024 – November 2027) aims to make the textile industry more sustainable and promote the transition to a circular economy. It focuses on the 5R strategies: Refuse/Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Repurpose, and Recycling. These approaches are designed to reduce waste and use resources more efficiently.
Challenges in the Textile Industry
The textile sector is one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions globally. In Europe, around 26 kg of textiles are purchased per person annually, with 11 kg discarded—less than 1% is recycled. Existing collection and recycling systems are inefficient, and consumer behavior is unsustainable.
Pilot Projects in Four Regions
SOLSTICE is testing its strategies in Grenoble (France), Prato (Italy), Catalonia (Spain), and Berlin (Germany). In Berlin, Circular Berlin is working with partners like DAWN Denim to analyze consumer behavior and develop concrete measures.
The REPAIR DEAL in Berlin
A key initiative is the REPAIR DEAL, a bonus program for repairing denim jeans. From July 1, 2025 to December 31, 2026, Berlin residents can use a digital platform to access either free repairs from partner brands or a 50% discount from other brands. The goal is to make repairs more accessible and foster a culture of conscious consumption. A major hurdle in establishing circular business models in the textile industry remains the lack of data on the textile material flows in circulation, such as denim. Insights from the project can therefore also serve as a basis for improved statistical surveys.
Innovation and Impact
SOLSTICE is developing four new chemical recycling technologies and promoting collaboration between research, industry, government, and citizens. A digital product passport will improve traceability of raw materials. The project’s outcomes will serve as blueprints for other regions and support policy measures such as eco-modulation.