World Environment Day 2026: ReFiber launches Mumbai’s mega textile waste collection and upcycling initiative

by | Jun 10, 2026 | Ecofriendly & Tech, Home, Initiatives | 0 comments

World Environment Day 2026: ReFiber launches Mumbai’s mega textile waste collection and upcycling initiative

Marking World Environment Day 2026 with a strong commitment to sustainability, ReFiber, powered by OterRi, launched Mumbai’s Mega Post-Consumer Textile Waste Collection & Upcycling Initiative. The ambitious program aims to create a circular textile ecosystem by collecting, recovering and upcycling post-consumer textile waste while generating significant environmental and social impact.

As part of the initiative, ReFiber has announced a city-wide textile collection drive from June 5 to 12, encouraging citizens, institutions and communities across Mumbai to donate used garments through dedicated collection centres and its digital platform. The campaign seeks to divert textile waste from landfills and transform it into valuable resources through innovative recycling and upcycling solutions.

A key highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the ReFiber Upcycled Products Marketplace, featuring handcrafted products created by women artisans associated with Tisser. The platform aims to convert discarded textiles into products of value while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities and empowering women-led self-help groups across India.

The event also hosted discussions on technology-driven solutions for textile waste management, advancing circularity in India’s textile industry and fostering collaborations for a zero-waste future.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Vrunda Desai, Textile Commissioner, Maharashtra Government, emphasized the need for collective action. “India has made significant progress in textile recycling and circularity, but there is still immense potential to recover and repurpose post-consumer textile waste from our households. Initiatives like ReFiber’s collection and upcycling drive demonstrate how collaboration between government, industry and citizens can transform textile waste into a valuable resource while creating sustainable livelihoods.”

Dr. Megha Phansalkar, Founder of Tisser, highlighted the role of upcycling in creating both environmental and social value. “At Tisser, we believe that waste is simply a resource waiting to be reimagined. Through textile upcycling, we are transforming discarded fabrics into products of value while creating livelihood opportunities and empowering women. Every garment diverted from landfill is a step towards a more responsible and circular world,” she said.

Echoing the vision, Manoj Wanvari, COO of ReFiber and OterRi, described the initiative as the beginning of a larger movement. “What is often perceived as waste is, in reality, a valuable resource that can be recovered, upcycled and brought back into the economy. With ReFiber, we are enabling consumers to play an active role in reducing textile waste while supporting sustainable livelihoods and accelerating circularity in the textile sector.”

Sanjay Kataria, President of the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), noted that the initiative goes beyond waste collection. “This initiative is not just about collecting used garments; it is about creating a movement that transforms waste into opportunity. By bringing together industry, government, civil society and citizens, we are taking a meaningful step towards building a circular textile ecosystem.”

The event brought together leading voices from government, industry, sustainability and development sectors, including representatives from UNIDO, World Trade Centre Mumbai, Grasim Industries, Grant Thornton Bharat, Intellecap and several sustainability-focused organizations.

As Mumbai embarks on this city-wide movement, ReFiber’s initiative stands as a powerful example of how collaboration can drive meaningful environmental and social change. By transforming discarded textiles into opportunities for innovation, circularity and livelihood creation, the initiative is helping pave the way for a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

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About Sukarna Mondal

An experienced entertainment journalist with over 20 years in the industry, specializing in film, television, music, and celebrity culture. Known for delivering in-depth features, interviews, and critical reviews, Miss SM has built a reputation for insightful storytelling and an eye for trends. With a strong presence across print, digital, and broadcast platforms, she has cultivated relationships with industry insiders and top-tier talent. Adept at covering red carpets, premieres, and exclusive events, Miss SM has been recognized for her credibility and passion for pop culture. A trusted voice, consistently delivering compelling content that resonates with diverse audiences.

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