The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world, accounting for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution. The circular economy offers a promising solution to address these challenges, by shifting away from the traditional "take-make-waste" model and towards a more sustainable system where resources are kept in use for as long as possible.

Cyprus is still in the early stages of its transition to a circular economy, but there are a number of promising initiatives underway in the fashion sector. These efforts are aimed at reducing waste, promoting reuse and repair, and developing new recycling technologies.

One of the key challenges facing the fashion industry in Cyprus is the high volume of textile waste generated each year. According to the European Environment Agency, Cypriots discarded approximately 26,800 tonnes of clothing and footwear between 2013 and 2019. 

Only 9 percent of textile waste is being recycled or reused, meaning that 91 percent ends up in the residual waste stream. This waste is typically sent to landfills, where it decomposes slowly and releases methane, a greenhouse gas that is at least 28 times stronger than carbon dioxide.

To address this challenge, the Cyprus government has been developing an extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme for textiles. Within the framework of an EPR program, manufacturers would bear the responsibility for their products once they reach the end of their usability. Such a scheme would encourage manufacturers to create products that last longer and can be recycled more easily, as well as to put money into systems for collecting and recycling waste.

Another important area of focus is the promotion of reuse and repair. A number of organizations in Cyprus are working to make it easier for people to donate and purchase second-hand clothing. For example, the Cyprus Circular Economy Network (CCEN) has launched a platform to usher in a circular economy across industries and sectors through business transformation, transition to circular cities, and facilitating knowledge exchange.

In efforts to encourage society to discover more sustainable fashion, the Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus (FHNC) is a platform that marries Cypriot fashion heritage with modern sustainable fashion methods, tools, and knowledge. Amalgamating the efforts of young Cypriot fashion designers and artists, FHNC showcases their work in fashion shows and exhibitions, as well as digital content and videos.

There is a growing interest in developing new recycling technologies and manufacturing methods for textiles. One Cypriot-founded company, Tallulah Rose, leads by example through sourcing 100% cotton from regenerative farms which represent an innovative approach to growing cotton. It aims to reverse the ecological impact of conventional agriculture and focuses on maintaining enduring soil vitality by capturing carbon and reducing reliance on water and fertilizers.

The circular economy offers a promising solution to address the environmental challenges posed by the fashion industry in Cyprus. A number of promising initiatives are underway to reduce waste, promote reuse and repair, and develop new recycling technologies. These initiatives, identified by Fashion Revolution, are spread across Cyprus, focusing on recycling, reusing, and repairing clothes and textiles including seamstresses, online stores, sustainable designers, rentals, workshops, and concept stores.

The continued development and implementation of these initiatives will require the collaboration of government, businesses, and consumers. By working together, we can create a more sustainable fashion industry in Cyprus that benefits both people and the planet.

One of the main challenges facing the transition to a circular fashion economy in Cyprus is the lack of awareness and understanding of the circular economy concept among consumers and businesses. It is important to raise awareness of the benefits of the circular economy and to provide education and support to businesses and consumers on how to adopt circular practices.

Another challenge is the lack of infrastructure and investment in textile waste collection and recycling. The government and businesses need to invest in developing and implementing effective waste management systems for textiles.

Despite the challenges, there are also a number of opportunities for Cyprus to become a leader in circular fashion. There is a strong entrepreneurial culture and a growing interest in sustainable fashion. The government can play a key role in supporting the development of the circular fashion economy by providing financial incentives and regulatory support to businesses.

The Cyprus government is currently developing a Circular Economy Strategy, which is expected to be published in 2023. The strategy will set out a vision and roadmap for the transition to a circular economy in Cyprus across sectors, promoting practices and raising awareness around circular and sustainable practices.