Sustaining Livelihoods Through Circular Fashion
Ghana’s second-hand clothing sector supports over 2.5 million livelihoods and contributes significantly to national revenue. This theme explores how to preserve jobs while transitioning to a circular economy, ensuring that sustainability efforts strengthen—rather than displace—those who depend on the industry.
- Empowering Second-Hand Traders & Artisans – Creating sustainable business models that support economic inclusion.
- Expanding Market Access for Upcycled Textiles – Connecting designers and SMEs to international buyers.
Ghana is among the world's largest importers of second-hand clothing, receiving approximately 15 million items each week. This influx presents both challenges and opportunities for sustain- able management and innovation.
The accumulation of textile waste has led to environmental concerns, including pollution of water bodies and strain on waste management systems. For instance, organizations like The Or Foundation report removing an average of 20 tons of textile and plastic waste from beaches weekly, highlighting the pressing need for sustainable solutions.
The second-hand clothing industry contributes significantly to Ghana's economy, supporting approxi- mately 60,000 jobs and adding $76 million to the GDP in 2023. By implement- ing sustainable practices, Ghana can further enhance economic growth and job creation in the green sector.
Under the leadership of President John Mahama, the Ghanaian government has demonstrated its com- mitment to sustainability by integrating the Green Transition into the Ministry of Energy. This bold move underscores the administration’s dedication to advancing discussions on sustainable development, circular economy practices, and innova- tive approaches to textile waste manage- ment.