What the study found
The study found that Czech consumers' clothing disposal behavior varies by gender and age. Female consumers were described as primarily acting sustainably with textile waste, while durability issues were the main reason clothes were discarded.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that the findings suggest a role for consumer education, better textile quality, and at-home recycling initiatives in supporting a more circular textile system. They also indicate that policymakers should prioritize education to encourage better purchasing, repair, and disposal behaviors.
What the researchers tested
The researchers used a quantitative, positivist study design with a structured questionnaire. They analyzed responses with frequency percentages normalized by gender and age, and used chi-square tests and Cramér's V to examine relationships such as reason, gender, and age.
What worked and what didn't
The study reports that female consumers were the group most likely to act sustainably in textile disposal. It also reports that durability was the main disposal reason, and that changes in purchasing habits may improve sustainability; however, the abstract does not provide detailed breakdowns beyond these points.
What to keep in mind
The abstract notes that the sample was anonymous, self-selected, younger, and digitally connected, which may limit how well the findings generalize. It also says most respondents were presumed to be interested in fashion or sustainability, and the sample was 81% women.
Key points
- Female consumers were described as mainly acting sustainably with textile waste.
- Durability issues were the main reason for clothing disposal.
- The authors suggest consumer education is the most important policy priority.
- Better textile quality and at-home recycling initiatives are mentioned as supporting measures.
- The sample was self-selected, younger, digitally connected, and 81% women.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Czech consumers mainly dispose of clothing sustainably, with durability as the main reason for disposal
- Authors:
- Jakub Wiener, Divan Coetzee, Tereza Šubrová
- Institutions:
- Technical University of Liberec, Technical University of Liberec, Technical University of Liberec
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-03
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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