Sustainability and Social Responsibility

From Waste to Wear: Perceived Risks Associated with Recycled Post-Consumer Textile Waste (PCTW) Denim Products

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Abstract

The fashion industry generates extensive post-consumer textile waste (PCTW), with only a small percentage recycled annually in the United States. Denim offers potential for sustainable practices; however, consumer perceptions of risks hinder its acceptance. The study identifies three dimensions of perceived risk associated with recycled PCTW denim: functional risk (concerns about product durability), psychological risk (emotional discomfort from using recycled products), and social risk (fear of societal judgment). The study proposes environmental consciousness and third-party certification as factors that can mitigate these risks and enhance purchase intentions. Environmentally conscious consumers are more likely to adopt recycled products, while certification labels assure quality and sustainability. A conceptual model outlines these relationships, emphasizing the need for strategies to reduce consumer apprehensions. Recommendations include promoting environmental consciousness through education and adopting certification standards. Future research is recommended for empirical research to validate these propositions and advance sustainable practices in denim production.

Keywords: Sustainable Denim, Perceived Risk, Post-Consumer Textile Waste

How to Cite:

Rasu, M., Kwon, W. & Chattaraman, V., (2025) “From Waste to Wear: Perceived Risks Associated with Recycled Post-Consumer Textile Waste (PCTW) Denim Products”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18728