Reverse Logistics Challenges in the Textile Industry in the Year 2035

This paper presents three explorative scenarios for reverse logistics in the textile and apparel industry in Germany for the year 2035. The scenarios build upon six key factors which represent technological, legal, societal, and sustainable perspectives. Scenario “Sustainable policies” refers to companies in the textile and apparel industry changing their production philosophy towards sustainability and producer responsibility due to stricter legal recycling regulations. Scenario “Consumer awakening” assumes a rise in backward flows of recyclable apparel due to consumers demanding sustainable fashion and recycled apparel. The third scenario “Profit over humanity” is negative in its basic tone and describes a profit driven production philosophy where sustainable aspects such as recycling-oriented product development are not considered at all by society.