What makes bioplastics innovative for fashion retailers? An in-depth analysis according to the Triple Bottom Line Principle

Abstract

As with food packaging, bioplastics can play a significant role in sustainability for textiles. This study carried out interviews with 64 experts from the clothing trade and manufacturing industry on the conditions required for an innovative plastics transition. Statements were clustered, coded and statistically analysed according to the Triple Bottom Line Principle. It was shown that the greatest success is achieved when bioplastics clothing is recyclable, the development is carried out cooperatively and the product is returned via reverse logistics. Bioplastics apparel packaging, on the other hand, should be compostable, developed in-house and returned to the natural cycle by consumers themselves. While statements on material recycling were ecologically oriented, the opinions on the development and recycling process were mostly influenced by business interests. Significant effects could only be proven for the latter two. Absolute majorities were found for bioplastics in apparel packaging and for open innovation, whereas the views on the end-of-life option and on the degree of innovation potential of reverse logistics were balanced. The findings provide impulses for the most innovative plastics transition possible in the fashion industry.