Methods
National survey: A quantitative, nationally representative online survey of 1,069 adults aged 16+ carried out in November 2022 in Ireland.
Retail proposition analysis: The survey tested four circular textiles retail propositions: take-back schemes, rental services, recycled-fibre clothing, and brands selling second-hand clothing.
Behavioural insight approach: The survey explored awareness, current use, influencing factors and likelihood to try each proposition.
Main Findings
Clothes made from recycled fibres had the highest awareness and use: 51% of people were aware of them and 22% had bought them.
Current use of other circular propositions was low: 5% had used take-back schemes, 5% had used clothing rental services, and 4% had used brands selling second-hand clothing.
Willingness to try circular textile options was positive, especially for take-back schemes and recycled-fibre clothing, with 58% and 57% likely to try them respectively.
Women, particularly those aged 35–49, showed higher interest across several circular textile options.
Environmental concerns, cost savings, loyalty discounts, condition guarantees and avoiding one-time purchases were key factors influencing people’s willingness to try circular retail propositions.
The results are presented in infographic form with raw data files available to download.
