In response to growing waste management challenges in the city, H&M and Bal Raksha Bharat will launch a circular economy project called Tikau Fashion in the capital of the southern Indian state of Karnataka.

The city is currently grappling with waste issues caused by rapid urbanisation and a lack of sufficient infrastructure, which this joint project aims to address.

The Tikau Fashion project hopes to tap into the creative potential of youth in Bengaluru, tackling both waste management and unemployment by creating practical and circular economy solutions.

Recycling and upcycling is central to the project, making new fashion items, bags, rugs and quilts from clothing waste.

The Tikau Fashion initiative also aims to promote sustainable fashion practices and responsible waste management.

The project aims to build on the success of the Youth Innovation and Action Lab project, which is already fostering youth-led innovation across multiple states in India.

Bal Raksha Bharat’s CEO Sudarshan Suchi said: “We are thrilled to launch Tikau Fashion in partnership with H&M, marking a significant step towards transforming waste management practices in Bengaluru.

“This initiative embodies our commitment to sustainability and youth empowerment. By integrating circular economy principles, we are not only addressing the pressing issue of textile waste but also providing valuable skills and opportunities to the next generation. Through Tikau Fashion, we aim to create a positive environmental impact while fostering economic growth and innovation among marginalised youth. Together, we can build a greener and more inclusive future."

In 2023, Fashion for Good launched a toolkit based on its two-year Sorting for Circularity India project to help tackle textile waste and drive a more circular economy as well as a new textile recovery alliance that aims to position India as a leading next-gen textile solutions hub.