Dr. Archana Singh
M. A., Ph. D. (Home Science), Patna University, Patna
E-mail: singh3aug.archana@gmail.com
Issue: Volume 2 No. 2 (June 2026) Anubodhan
Received: 25 June 2026 / Accepted: 30 June 2026 / Published: 30 June 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65885/anubodhan.v2n2.2026.082
Abstract
The Indian textile industry contributes nearly 2% to the national GDP and provides employment to around 45 million people. However, it is also one of the major contributors to environmental pollution, accounting for approximately 20% of global industrial water pollution. The rapid growth of fast fashion has intensified ecological challenges through excessive water consumption, high carbon emissions, and increasing textile waste. This study examines traditional Indian textiles as sustainable alternatives to fast fashion, with special reference to Gujarat’s Patola double-ikat weaving tradition. A comparative analysis was conducted between fast fashion textiles, conventional handloom products, and Patola fabrics on the basis of water footprint, energy consumption, durability, and lifecycle sustainability. Secondary data from textile and sustainability reports were used to evaluate their environmental impact. The findings reveal that Patola and handloom textiles consume significantly less water and energy during production and generate lower carbon emissions over their usable life compared to polyester-based fast fashion garments. Traditional textiles also demonstrate greater durability, cultural value, and potential for reuse, thereby supporting the principles of a circular economy. The study highlights that heritage textile crafts can serve as a sustainable luxury model by combining environmental responsibility with cultural preservation and rural employment generation. It concludes that stronger policy support, promotion of GI-tagged crafts, and increased consumer awareness are essential for encouraging sustainable fashion practices and reducing the environmental burden of the textile industry in India.
Keywords: Sustainable fashion, Handloom, Patola, Double ikat, Water footprint, Circular economy, Textile waste.
How to cite: Singh, A. (2026). Revival of Traditional Textiles and Environmental Impact: A Case Study of Gujarat’s Patola Craft. Anubodhan, 2(2), 218–222. https://doi.org/10.65885/anubodhan.v2n2.2026.082