Co-designing knowledge flow for systemic innovation in textiles: Bio-based, Local, Circular

Policy reforms in the textiles and fashion industries are looming but progress is slow, and, without a clear pathway, the question remains: how can the socio-material textiles system transition? This paper presents initial findings from a Horizon 2020 research project – HEREWEAR – which attempts to create Systemic Material Innovation in the textiles ecosystem through local, bio-based and circular strategies. This paper focusses on the role of co-design in enabling knowledge flow between project partners and stakeholders, to create a systemic view of the issues, concerns and illuminate opportunities for change. Key emergent themes from this approach are reported and discussed, as well as insights into the challenges and opportunities that have arisen from this research.