Enhancing circular textile waste recycling: a comparative analysis of European countries and South Korea

The rapid increase in textile waste has intensified the need for effective strategies to establish circular textile management systems. This study evaluates textile waste management policies in South Korea through a comparative analysis with selected European countries and examines multiple recycling pathways, including mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and energy recovery. The comparative policy analysis showed that the European countries generally covered a broader range of life-cycle stages and included economic and communication instruments that were not identified in South Korea. Product quality analysis further confirmed that qualified recycled products can be obtained through selected recycling pathways, indicating the technical applicability of textile waste recycling. However, policy and technological improvements are still required to support practical implementation. To address these challenges, this study proposes integrated policy and technology measures, including textile extended producer responsibility (EPR), recyclable design, digital product passport (DPP)-based tracking, advanced sorting, recycled-content requirements, and financial incentives. A hierarchical prioritization framework based on material circularity, value retention, and environmental considerations is also suggested to support the development of circular textile management systems.