Section Article

Study of Consumer Behavior Towards Disposal of Garments & Perception towards Used Clothing
Author(s): Khushboo & Madhuri Nigam

Abstract
The increasing prevalence of fast fashion has transformed global clothing consumption patterns contributing to substantial environmental challenges. This study examines consumer behavior regarding garment disposal and perceptions toward used clothing focusing on young adult women aged 18-25 in the Delhi-NCR region. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach including surveys and interviews with consumers sellers and barterers this research identifies key factors influencing clothing disposal habits and the acceptance of pre-owned clothing. Findings reveal significant underutilization of garments with over 60% of consumers reporting wearing less than 70% of their wardrobe primarily due to fast-changing fashion trends and societal pressures. Despite growing awareness of sustainability economic and personal convenience outweigh environmental considerations in disposal decisions. The study highlights critical barriers in the secondhand clothing market including perceptions of cleanliness lack of organized infrastructure and minimal government intervention. It also identifies opportunities for promoting sustainable consumption through targeted awareness campaigns upscaling and leveraging social media platforms. The research underscores the need for systemic changes in supply chains incentivizing sustainable disposal practices and improving accessibility to recycling and donation channels. The findings contribute to the discourse on sustainable fashion and provide actionable insights for stakeholders aiming to mitigate the environmental impact of the textile industry.