#81 - The Future of Circular Fashion & Textiles

What does it take to transform one of the world’s most polluting industries from within? In this episode of *Circular Coffee Break*, Emilia Gädda, Chief Advisor of Sustainability and Circular Economy at *Finnish Textile and Fashion*, shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities of circular fashion. With over a decade of experience in sustainability, ESG, and supply chain management, Emilia explores the systemic shifts required to make fashion truly circular, from policy and innovation to consumer behaviour and industry collaboration. Emilia reflects on the paradoxes of sustainable fashion, such as the gap between consumer demand for sustainability and unwillingness to pay a premium, and the tension between global supply chains and local circular solutions. She discusses the role of second-hand markets, the need for research-based policy, and why technology and digitalization are critical but not sufficient on their own. She also highlights the determination of Finnish companies to lead the change, despite legislative ups and downs, and shares her optimism for the next generation of consumers and industry leaders. **Why listen?** - Understand the systemic challenges of circular fashion, from supply chain complexities to economic structures. - Explore the role of consumers in driving change and how individual choices can influence industry-wide transformation. - Learn about the opportunities and limitations of secondhand markets, technology, and policy in advancing circularity. - Discover why collaboration between industry, regulators, and consumers is essential for meaningful progress. - Gain insights into the Finnish textile industry’s approach to sustainability and its potential to inspire global change. Whether you are a consumer, a professional in the fashion industry, or simply interested in the future of sustainable textiles, Emilia’s perspective offers a practical and thought-provoking look at the path toward circular fashion. **Keywords:** circular fashion, sustainable textiles, ESG, supply chain sustainability, secondhand clothing, consumer behavior, fashion industry, policy and innovation, Finnish textile industry, digital product passport, textile recycling, systemic change, Emilia Gädda, Circular Coffee Break * * * Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.