Forebode is a circular design consultancy dedicated to reducing textile waste and preventing its disposal. We collaborate with industry professionals, designers, activists, and academics to create sustainable solutions for every stage of the textile production and consumption process.
Production
Efficiently managing production waste is a key challenge for the fashion industry. Our approach involves integrating zero waste design principles, promoting coherent quality expectations, and designing garments that maximize material utilization, ultimately striving for a circular fashion dream
Post-Production
Returns, damaged items, and unsold stock constitute continuous waste issues to every brand. Establishing an efficient repair centre and collaborating with students, artists upcycling designers are our recommended solutions to minimize unnecessary waste and breathe new life into unsold garments
Post-Consumer
Addressing the problem of post-consumer waste, we develop workflows to prioritize the longevity of designs, reselling schemes, effective take-back programs and responsibility for the end of life of the product. We embrace recycling only after other circular practices have been fully integrated into production processes
Forebode’s circular design approach revolves around three pillars: Minimise, Upcycle, and Recycle
Minimise
At the core of our circular journey is minimisation. By reducing the use of blended materials and waste at the design stage, we increase the potential for effective recycling. Addressing waste problems from the outset is crucial to building a more sustainable future for the fashion industry
Upcycle
Upcycling is a powerful methodology, yet underutilized by many brands and retailers. Through a personalized approach, and collaborative efforts with communities, educational institutions, and designers, we can unlock the value of upcycling, benefiting all involved parties
Recycle
Recycling should only be implemented after other circular practices are integrated into day-to-day production. It is essential to select the right recycling partners for efficient closed-loop production and localization, minimizing the energy and water-intensive nature of recycling processes
Strategic partnerships that create value out of textile waste
Mixed Blend Waste
Mixed blend textiles, often a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, are particularly challenging to handle. These materials carry both a large carbon footprint and lack biodegradability. While current recycling methods are limited, we work to identify solutions that repurpose mixed fibers minimizing their impact on the environment
Natural Fiber Waste
Natural fibres, such as cotton and wool, pose challenges in recycling due to their diverse nature. If not blended, advances in technology have enabled mechanical and chemical recycling of materials like cotton, linen, wool and cashmere through recycling experts. Our experts pose deep understanding of the process and the right partner for the task, ensuring high quality of the material
Synthetic Waste
Polymer-based synthetics, like polyester, are the main contributors to microplastic pollution and present a significant recycling challenge. While recycled polyester from PET bottles exists, polyester rarely undergoes a second recycling process. Our engage in projects focusing on recycling synthetic polymers and explore options for making this category biodegradable, contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry
Ready to revolutionize your approach to textile waste and embrace circular design? Contact us now to collaborate and create a sustainable future together
Get In Touch
Fill in the form below to book a free consultation with one of our experts