This chapter explores consumer perception and the role of education in promoting sustainable choices within the UK textile industry. With growing concerns about the environmental and social impacts of fashion, sustainability has emerged as a critical issue for both consumers and producers. However, despite increasing awareness, a gap remains between consumers’ knowledge of sustainable textiles and their actual purchasing decisions. This conceptual paper examines how consumer perceptions of sustainability can be influenced through targeted education and awareness initiatives in the UK context. Drawing on existing literature and theoretical frameworks in consumer behaviour, sustainability education, and ethical consumption, this chapter critically analyses the factors shaping consumer decision-making in the textile sector. It explores the role of government policies, NGO campaigns, and brand-led initiatives in fostering consumer awareness and engagement with sustainable textiles. By identifying key barriers, such as misconceptions, cost concerns, and limited accessibility, the chapter provides a theoretical discussion on how educational interventions can bridge the gap between awareness and action. Further, the paper evaluates potential educational strategies, including digital platforms, influencer marketing, and transparency in branding, as tools for enhancing consumer engagement. Comparative case studies of successful environmental campaigns in other sectors will be analysed to assess their applicability to the textile industry. Ultimately, this chapter offers insights into how consumer education can serve as a catalyst for driving sustainable purchasing decisions. It provides strategic recommendations for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and educators on improving consumer understanding and accessibility to sustainable textile options, fostering a more environmentally responsible and socially conscious consumer base.

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Consumer Perception and Education in Promoting Sustainable Choices in Textiles

  • Sharon Nunoo,
  • Morolake Dairo,
  • Tahera Kalsoom

摘要

This chapter explores consumer perception and the role of education in promoting sustainable choices within the UK textile industry. With growing concerns about the environmental and social impacts of fashion, sustainability has emerged as a critical issue for both consumers and producers. However, despite increasing awareness, a gap remains between consumers’ knowledge of sustainable textiles and their actual purchasing decisions. This conceptual paper examines how consumer perceptions of sustainability can be influenced through targeted education and awareness initiatives in the UK context. Drawing on existing literature and theoretical frameworks in consumer behaviour, sustainability education, and ethical consumption, this chapter critically analyses the factors shaping consumer decision-making in the textile sector. It explores the role of government policies, NGO campaigns, and brand-led initiatives in fostering consumer awareness and engagement with sustainable textiles. By identifying key barriers, such as misconceptions, cost concerns, and limited accessibility, the chapter provides a theoretical discussion on how educational interventions can bridge the gap between awareness and action. Further, the paper evaluates potential educational strategies, including digital platforms, influencer marketing, and transparency in branding, as tools for enhancing consumer engagement. Comparative case studies of successful environmental campaigns in other sectors will be analysed to assess their applicability to the textile industry. Ultimately, this chapter offers insights into how consumer education can serve as a catalyst for driving sustainable purchasing decisions. It provides strategic recommendations for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and educators on improving consumer understanding and accessibility to sustainable textile options, fostering a more environmentally responsible and socially conscious consumer base.