John J. Frett

Locally produced textiles: product development and evaluation of consumers’ acceptance

Textile and apparel represent one of the most globalised industries which can have negative impacts on the environment and social equity. This research used locally grown natural materials, including sheeps wool, mohair, and plant-sourced natural dyes, from a university campus and surrounding areas to develop textiles. The study demonstrated that local production can be a sustainable development strategy with economic, environmental, and social benefits. Focus group discussions and a questionnaire survey were conducted with university students to evaluate the users’ acceptance of the locally produced textiles. A majority of the participants liked the colours of the textiles, thought the textile yarns and scarf made from local materials were beautiful and comfortable, and were willing to buy the locally produced textile products. Students’ sustainability attitudes towards equity, economy, and environment affected their preference for locally produced textiles. Their interest in campus-sourced products was mainly driven by their personal connection with the university.