Scotland discarded 112 kilotonnes (kt) of textiles in 2023, with 50% being disposed of as waste to landfill or incineration, findings from Zero Waste Scotland show.
The research from Zero Waste Scotland (ZWS) also found Scotland’s international imports account for 240kt of textiles annually, with 31% coming from China, while it exports just 109kt.
Based on 2023 and 2024 findings, the figures were published by ZWS as part of a suite of research on textile waste.
ZWS also found that 60% of people said they’re aware that throwing clothes in the bin contributes to environmental damage.
Alongside the research, ZWS has called for a strengthening of product stewardship frameworks to ensure ‘clearer responsibilities across the supply chain’.
Product stewardship is a policy approach that aims to ensure every party involved in the design, production, sale, and use of a product shares responsibility for minimising its environmental impact.
Jamie Fry, Head of Policy at Zero Waste Scotland, said: “This new research shows that Scotland can become a model for a truly circular textiles system, where the full life cycle of materials is considered and their value understood.”
“This isn’t solely about the environment – it’s about innovation, investment, business growth, job creation, and a secure economy that’s future proof.”
The Scottish Government has launched a consultation on its Circular Economy Strategy, which is open until 13 January 2026.