The following recommendations collectively aim to modernise Pakistan’s textile industry, making it more sustainable, competitive, and aligned with global environmental and labour standards. The government’s role in facilitating these changes through policy, infrastructure support, and international collaboration is crucial:

o   Align the textile industry with the European Union (EU) and global standards on environmental and labour practices. This includes adopting track and trace systems, establishing recycling industries, incentivising waste-to-energy projects, and using recycled materials to meet stringent market requirements.

o   Adopt a holistic approach towards transitioning the textile industry to a circular economy. Implement global guidelines for used textile trade, provide capacity building for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in managing chemical usage, and initiate consumer behaviour change towards sustainable choices. Leverage support and expertise from international bodies like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for infrastructure development and regulatory changes.

o   Develop a comprehensive strategy to incorporate circular principles throughout the textile supply chain, involving collaborative efforts and regulatory support for sustainable practices from farmers to garment manufacturers. Invest significantly in R&D for sustainable product development.

o   Establish structured, in-house recycling processes for pre- and post-consumer waste, focusing on commercially viable recycling systems. Move away from informal waste practices towards organised and sustainable waste management.

o   Innovate in the textile industry by producing higher thread count fabrics, aligning with global quality standards and reducing energy costs. This shift is essential for enhancing global competitiveness and sustainability.

o   Develop policies to incentivise the integration of recycled content into textile products, supporting not only large manufacturers but also SMEs. This approach is crucial for maintaining competitiveness, especially with upcoming EU legislation on waste.

o   Launch educational campaigns to inform consumers about the environmental impacts of fast fashion and the benefits of sustainable purchasing choices. This is vital for promoting a cultural shift towards recycled fabrics.

o   Adopt a life cycle assessment approach to quantify the impact of textile production on resources, energy, and water. This technical method will help the industry manage its environmental footprint and transition towards sustainability.

o   Incorporate sustainable manufacturing strategies like lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and green practices. Develop standardised designs to address post-industrial waste.

o   Focus on reducing economic activity to prioritise environmental stability and social well-being. Redefine success beyond GDP, advocating for renewable energy, green taxation, and sustainable government policies.

o   Move from a GDP-centric growth approach to a sustainable, circular economy. Focus on regeneration and redistribution, not just recycling and reusing.

o   Emphasise the importance of measuring and reporting sustainability practices for effective management in achieving circularity. Foster strong partnerships between academia and industry to foster innovation.