Berlin, Germany

SOLSTICE partner Circle Economy, in collaboration with Circular Berlin, conducted a current‐state analysis of the textile ecosystem in Berlin, with prevailing circular practices.

Berlin’s textile system is highly reliant on imported fibres, with only 5.8 kilotonnes (kt) of fibre manufacturing annually and less than 22 kg of post-consumer textiles collected per person. About 45% of this is exported for recycling or reuse. The city’s employment in the textile sector totals 20,900 people, mostly in retail, distribution, and repair, reflecting its service-based economy.

Access to circular services is strongly tied to location. Residents in central Berlin can walk to a service point in 7 minutes or drive there in just over 2 minutes, while those in peripheral areas face much longer travel times. Walking maps reveal greater inequalities in access than driving, suggesting that people without access to vehicles may be underserved.

Consumers in Berlin are price-conscious, with younger people more influenced by trends and social media, which can drive higher consumption. While second-hand shopping is popular, barriers like hygiene concerns and limited availability persist. Repair services are not widely used, but there is interest in community repair events and workshops.

Despite some existing infrastructure, Berlin has untapped potential in expanding repair and reuse services and could benefit from increased awareness and initiatives like second-hand mall sections and community spaces for repair and upcycling.