ASSESSING THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY POTENTIAL OF THE USAK TEXTILE RECYCLING CLUSTER: A REGIONAL PERSPECTIVE FROM TÜRKİYE

Abstract

The textile industry is among the most resource-intensive sectors worldwide due to its high consumption of water, energy, and raw materials, as well as the substantial amount of waste generated throughout production and consumption processes. In this context, textile recycling has emerged as a key strategy for promoting sustainable production and supporting the transition towards a circular economy. This study examines the structural characteristics, production processes, and circular economy potential of the textile recycling sector in Uşak, one of the leading textile recycling centers in Türkiye. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach based on document analysis and literature review. Academic publications, sectoral reports, and institutional data were systematically examined to evaluate the current structure and development of the Uşak textile recycling cluster. The findings reveal that recycling firms in the region primarily focus on regenerated yarn production through mechanical recycling processes, while recent investments have increasingly targeted technical textiles and higher value-added products. The results indicate that the Uşak textile recycling cluster has evolved into a significant secondary raw material production hub within the Turkish textile industry and possesses considerable potential for supporting circular economy practices. However, challenges related to raw material supply, energy costs, technological modernization, and skilled labor remain important barriers to sustainable sectoral development. Strengthening university–industry collaboration, expanding innovation capacity, and improving textile waste collection systems are identified as critical priorities for enhancing the sector’s long-term competitiveness and sustainability. This study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive evaluation of the Uşak textile recycling cluster from a circular economy perspective and highlighting its role in regional industrial development and sustainable production systems.