Revolutionizing Textile Waste Management: The Circular Textiles Waste Management (CTWM) Model

In an innovative initiative, Alwaleed Philanthropies "Global", in partnership with Enviu and CAIF—supported by co-funders IKEA Foundation and H&M Foundation—launched the Circular Textiles Waste Management (CTWM) Model in Kerala, India. This model is transforming textile waste management by reclaiming value from discarded materials, promoting circular economy practices, and empowering local communities.

CAIF’s Role:

Between 2023 and 2025, CAIF is leading the development of a practical, scalable CTWM model aimed at achieving the following goals:

• Establish a national textile waste management policy.
• Set up Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) operated by waste pickers.
• Foster waste micro-enterprises for sustainable livelihood generation.

Enviu’s Role:

Enviu complements this effort by:

• Building and scaling ventures within the CTWM ecosystem.
• Accelerating textile recycling startups.
• Developing long-term business models to support textile circularity.

The project was completed.

CAIF:

• 1.2 million kilograms of textile waste diverted from landfills and reintroduced into manufacturing, preventing 8.7 million kg CO₂e emissions
• 902 waste workers trained (86% women), with 657 now employed in circular-economy roles
• Generated $50,000 from the sale of recovered textile materials
• Created 32,000+ workdays, supported 26 women-led micro enterprises, and expanded operations to four cities

Enviu:

• Expanding operational activities to more than 55 hotels across 7 cities.
• Supported 8 waste-management enterprises across 3 ventures
• Developed 15+ recycled textile products and launched pilots with corporates such as IKEA
• Built 24 new market partnerships, expanding circular operations benefiting 50+ workers, diverting 75+ tons of textile waste
• Enhanced ecosystem visibility through media content, webinars, and national textile platforms

The CTWM Model continues to advance its mission of transforming textile waste management through collaboration, innovation, and community empowerment. By creating sustainable livelihoods and building inclusive business ecosystems, the initiative is paving the way for a greener, circular, and more responsible textile industry—not just in India, but as a global model for change.