Bengaluru’s first Circular Textile Lab has been inaugurated at Kasa Rasa Kendra, a ward-level solid waste management centre in Koramangala. The initiative aims to divert textile waste from landfills, support reuse of collected materials and create employment opportunities for local tailors and economically disadvantaged women.
Bengaluru’s First Circular Textile Lab Opens in Koramangala
The Circular Textile Lab was inaugurated on Monday by Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy alongside GBA officials. The facility is an initiative of South City Corporation and was initiated by NGO Saahas.
The lab will collect textile waste from garment units and tailors and process the material for reuse. The collected textiles will be converted into garments and eco-friendly bags while providing employment opportunities for economically disadvantaged communities.
Recycled Textile Thrift Store Planned
A thrift store is also being established at the facility to sell products made from recycled textiles. Revenue generated through the store will be used for the welfare of workers and management of the project.
The centre is equipped with an effluent and sewage treatment system to manage dyes and chemicals generated during textile processing.
Project to Expand Across Bengaluru
The project had previously been implemented in the Kolar Gold Fields and will initially operate in Koramangala before expanding to other wards in Bengaluru.
The initiative is therefore being introduced at the ward level, with the Circular Textile Lab serving as a facility for textile waste collection, processing and reuse.
Solid Waste Management Learning Centre Also Inaugurated
Alongside the textile lab, a Solid Waste Management Learning Centre was inaugurated at Kasa Rasa Kendra.
The centre will provide training on waste segregation, composting and waste reduction at source. Members of the public will also be able to use the facility for hands-on learning about waste management.