A collaborative project between SETU Carlow’s campus, Carlow County Council and Carlow Town’s local charity retail sector has explored textile sustainability and the development of the locality’s ‘circular economy’ concept.
Sixteen international students from the 4th Year Applied Business Solutions course at SETU Carlow, examined how embracing the circular economy can reduce textile waste and support greater sustainable local consumption.
Four SETU students – Qiuyu Xu, Xinyi Zhang, Mingyang Ma and Iryna Lomako – presented their findings in Carlow’s Council Chamber, with all four receiving presents from the local authority in recognition of their efforts.
The project allowed students to examine the move from a linear ‘take–make–dispose’ model for textiles to the circular economy which prioritises waste reduction, reuse and extended product lifecycles.
During the project, students conducted surveys in Carlow town centre and on the SETU campus to gauge public attitudes towards second‑hand clothing, alongside a focus group with local second‑hand shop owners.
This research documented the extent of the existing circular economy activity in Carlow, pinpointed community actors and also explored how local initiatives can be further developed.
According to Jannette O’Brien, Climate Action Coordinator with Carlow County Council said:
“Working in partnership with the SETU Learning Team and the local charity retail sector, this project places SETU Carlow students at the centre of change, supporting them to develop the skills and confidence to understand local challenges, lead practical circular economy solutions, and play a meaningful role in shaping the future of a more sustainable textile system in Carlow.”
The County Council has taken the students’ recommendations on board, with several actions already progressing.
Ms O’Brien spoke to KCLR News about the project’s success and outcomes.
