InnoKom 49MF240175
Abstract
Textile repair is a key pillar of the circular economy and is becoming increasingly important in light of regulatory requirements and evolving consumer behavior. In Germany alone, approximately 176,200 tons of used textiles were generated in 2021, while globally less than 1% is recycled. The ROC-E project aims to significantly extend the service life of garments through innovative repair technologies, thereby contributing to systemic transformation within the textile industry. Its core approach integrates digital embroidery technology, waterless yarn printing, and laser-assisted cutting. End-of-life textiles are digitally recorded, processed, and repurposed as the foundation for high-quality, customized repairs. The outcome is a modular, scalable system enabling efficient and sustainable textile repair solutions.
Current Situation
The repair of textiles—particularly high-quality garments—is a key pillar of a sustainable circular economy and a viable alternative to fast fashion. With the Used Clothing Ordinance coming into force in 2025, the separate collection and proper recycling of used textiles will become mandatory. In Germany alone, approximately 176,200 tons of used textiles were collected in 2021, while globally less than 1% of textiles are recycled. At the same time, the importance of reuse and prolonged product lifespans is steadily increasing. Legislative developments and changing consumer behavior are strengthening the market potential for repaired clothing. Against this backdrop, there is a growing need for innovative solutions that effectively extend the lifespan of textiles.
Project Objective
The ROC-E project illustrates how the repair of individual garments can act as a catalyst for systemic change within the textile industry. Its objective is to sustainably extend the service life of clothing through advanced repair approaches that go beyond conventional mending techniques.
Approach
The project centers on the integration of digital embroidery technology, waterless yarn printing, and laser-assisted cutting. Together, these technologies form a flexible platform for design-oriented textile repair. End-of-life textiles are digitally captured, classified, and repurposed as source material for embroidered repair elements, enabling efficient resource utilization while reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion.
In addition, customized yarn dyeing, digital color matching, and diverse design options allow for high-quality, individualized repairs. These not only restore functionality but also enhance the aesthetic value of garments, encouraging prolonged use.
The project results in a modular system tailored to textile workshops, small and medium-sized embroidery businesses, and alteration services. It enables efficient, scalable, and aesthetically refined repair processes. ROC-E thus contributes significantly to scaling circular solutions in the textile sector—from local implementation to global strategies for resource conservation and sustainable fashion.
Contact
Mandy Weber
