Textile Recycling Market Size & Forecast Report, 2033

 

The global textile recycling market size was estimated at USD 4,850.6 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 6,938.4 million by 2033, registering a steady CAGR of 4.2% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by rising environmental concerns associated with textile waste generation, coupled with increasing public awareness about the benefits of recycling used textiles. The need for sustainable waste management practices has become increasingly urgent as textile consumption continues to rise worldwide. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), textile waste occupies 5% of landfill space, underscoring the severity of the issue and the importance of enhanced recycling measures.

The U.S. remains one of the world’s largest producers of textile-related products, as stated by the National Council of Textile Organizations. Consequently, the volume of discarded textiles generated in the country is also substantial. Data from the Council for Textile Recycling reveals that the average American disposes of approximately 70 pounds of textiles annually, contributing significantly to landfill pressure. These statistics highlight the growing need for efficient textile recycling systems, which can help divert waste from landfills, lower environmental impact, and support a circular textile economy. As awareness increases and sustainability becomes a central focus across regions, demand for textile recycling is expected to strengthen in the coming years.

The global textile recycling market is moderately concentrated, with a select number of dominant companies holding a major share of the industry. This consolidation reflects the presence of established firms with advanced technological capabilities and strong global footprints. Leading companies are prioritizing innovative recycling technologies, strategic partnerships, and investment in research and development to enhance fiber recovery rates and improve the quality of recycled materials. At the same time, emerging startups, regional players, and local enterprises are contributing to market diversification by introducing niche solutions and localized recycling initiatives, collectively boosting industry growth.

Technological innovation continues to shape the textile recycling sector, especially in advancing both mechanical and chemical recycling processes. Chemical recycling technologies are gaining traction for their ability to break down complex textile blends and regenerate higher-purity fibers, while mechanical recycling remains widely used for its cost efficiency and scalability. Companies are actively working to improve the efficiency of recycling systems, enhance fabric quality post-recycling, and reduce the environmental footprint of production. These technological developments not only support global sustainability goals but also attract greater investment into eco-friendly textile materials and circular production models.

Key Market Trends & Insights:

  • Europe leads the global textile recycling industry, accounting for a revenue share of 29.4%, driven by strict environmental regulations, comprehensive waste management policies, and ambitious sustainability targets set by the European Union.
  • The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow rapidly over the forecast period, supported by rising textile production, increased consumption, and growing emphasis on managing textile waste more responsibly. The textile recycling market in India is forecast to grow at a strong CAGR of 5.7% from 2025 to 2033, driven by its expanding textile manufacturing sector and push toward sustainable practices.
  • By material, the cotton segment held the largest revenue share of 69.3% in 2024, reflecting cotton’s widespread use and recyclability. Meanwhile, the polyester segment is projected to grow at a notable CAGR of 5.7% from 2025 to 2033, due to rising demand for synthetic fiber recycling and increased focus on reducing plastic-based textile waste.
  • By source, the home furnishing waste segment accounted for 32.4% of revenue share in 2024, driven by the high turnover of household textile products. The apparel waste segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2025 to 2033, supported by fast fashion trends and increasing volumes of discarded clothing.
  • By process, the mechanical recycling segment held the largest share of 70.4% in 2024, owing to its cost-effectiveness and wide adoption. The chemical recycling segment is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2025 to 2033, as technological advancements make it more viable for complex and blended textiles.

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Market Size & Forecast:

  • 2024 Market Size: USD 4,850.6 Million
  • 2033 Projected Market Size: USD 6,938.4 Million
  • CAGR (2025-2033): 4.2%
  • Europe: Largest market in 2024
  • Asia Pacific: Fastest growing market

Key Companies & Market Share Insights:

Some of the key players operating in the global textile recycling market include Worn Again Technologies, Lenzing Group, and Birla Cellulose, among others. These companies focus on advancing recycling capabilities, expanding sustainable product lines, and integrating circular principles into their operations.

  • Worn Again Technologies: Established in 2005 and headquartered in East London, England, Worn Again Technologies began through a collaboration with Vivo Barefoot. The company is known for repurposing unconventional waste materials such as scrap leather, old prison blankets, decommissioned aircraft seat covers from Virgin Atlantic, and hot air balloon fabrics into new, high-value items like handbags, footwear, accessories, and jackets. Its cutting-edge recycling technology can decontaminate, separate, and extract polyester and cellulose from non-reusable textiles as well as polyester-based packaging and bottles. The resulting dual PET and cellulose outputs support circular manufacturing by reintroducing recovered materials back into supply chains.
  • LENZING AG: Founded in 1938 and headquartered in Lenzing, Austria, LENZING AG collaborates with global textile and nonwoven manufacturers and is recognized for its leadership in next-generation sustainable fiber solutions. The company operates across three main segments Division Fiber, Division Pulp, and Others. Through its Division Fiber segment, the company produces and markets wood-based cellulosic fibers under well-known brands such as TENCEL, VEOCEL, and LENZING ECOVERO. Its fibers, including modal, lyocell, and viscose, are widely used in nonwovens, textiles, and specialty applications due to their biodegradability, softness, and environmental benefits.

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Conclusion:

The global textile recycling market is set to experience steady growth as rising environmental concerns and increasing awareness of textile waste drive demand for sustainable recycling solutions. Strong regional initiatives, particularly in Europe and Asia Pacific, are reinforcing the shift toward circular textile systems and responsible waste management. Technological advancements in both mechanical and chemical recycling continue to enhance fiber recovery and material quality, supporting broader adoption across industries. Overall, the market’s evolution reflects a growing commitment to sustainability, resource efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.

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