### Regional Model for Textile Recycling - Wakayama Prefecture (1999-2020s)

### Regional Model for Textile Recycling - Wakayama Prefecture (1999-2020s)

**1999: Initial move toward textile waste recycling**.
The Wakayama Knitting Industry Association began efforts to develop a recycling system for textile waste generated as industrial waste. In FY1999, a fact-finding survey was conducted and market awareness campaigns were launched with the cooperation of the Okazaki production area. In FY2000, we began trial production and market development of new products, and in FY2001, we began to expand the range of recycled products with high business potential.

**2010s: Recycling Technology Innovation and Diffusion**.
In the 2010s, recycling technology improved dramatically, creating new possibilities for waste management in the textile industry. The Wakayama Knitting Industry Association strengthened cooperation with local companies and promoted mechanization to improve the accuracy of waste sorting. In addition, products made from recycled fibers began to be marketed nationwide, increasing demand in the fashion industry and as industrial materials.

Meanwhile, in response to growing environmental awareness in Japan and abroad, the cooperative actively developed environmental education activities for local residents and students. Exhibitions and workshops of products made from recycled materials were held to raise awareness in the local community.

**2020s: Deepening into sustainability**.
In the 2020s, the textile industry in Wakayama Prefecture focused on further reducing environmental impact and promoting resource recycling. The Wakayama Knitwear Industry Association strengthened its plan to recycle cutting scraps and unused fabric (waste) generated in the manufacturing process. It is also contributing to the local community by donating waste cloth to a hospital in Wakayama City. It has also launched an initiative to sell fabric cuts at low prices in order to convey the appeal of knitwear to the community.

In addition, as a model case for the entire production area to achieve zero emissions, the development and market awareness of products made from recycled materials is underway. In this way, the textile industry in Wakayama Prefecture is making steady progress toward building a sustainable industrial structure.

**Future Outlook**.
An environmentally friendly industrial model with fiber recycling at its core is also contributing to the revitalization of the local economy. With technological innovations aimed at achieving zero-emissions, and the expectation of market expansion both in Japan and abroad, the textile industry in Wakayama Prefecture is attracting attention as a model for the rest of the country.