Our first Seamless working groups convened this month, with responsibility for targeted aspects of the Seamless work plan across circular design, circular business models and closing the loop. Working groups are made up of experts from across the clothing industry – from clothing brands and retailers, through to universities, charities and reuse and recycling operators.
Enabling collaboration through Seamless working groups
Expressions of interest to join Seamless working groups were sought from all Seamless members and supporters, and the first four Seamless working groups have now been established.
1. Circular design: eco-modulation and data reporting
This group held their first meeting this month and members are drawn from organisations including David Jones, Elk the Label, GS1 Australia, Jag, Philosophy Australia, THE ICONIC, Universal Store and UTS. They are reviewing the current eco-modulation criteria for clothing and providing recommendations on the framework to further develop eco-modulation, as well as new eco-modulation criteria to drive improved environmental outcomes to 2030. The group will also contribute to ensuring that Seamless reporting processes are effective, practical, and aligned with sustainability objectives.
2. Circular business models: aged inventory management
This group will hold their inaugural meeting in May 2025 to review the current baseline of industry data for aged clothing inventory. They will also be investigating and recommending planning and sourcing practices and methodologies to reduce overproduction.
3. Closing the loop: taxonomy of R-Strategies
Commencing in early March 2025, this group are responsible for reviewing the proposed taxonomy of R-Strategies that guide how circular design and manufacturing can keep resources in use and waste out of the environment – from ‘Refuse’ and ‘Rethink’ through to ‘Recover’ and ‘Recycle’. These will become the standard industry definitions for the development of Australia’s national clothing collection, sorting, reuse and recycling system.
4. Closing the loop: meeting the requirements for uniforms
This group will get underway in May 2025 to consider the uniform market and align the current Seamless scheme model to the requirements of uniforms as a product stream.
We’ll update you on insights and outcomes in the coming months.
