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Swipe, Sell, Sustain: A Discussion of the Boom in Second-Hand Clothing from a Global Justice Perspective

Eine Person denkt vor einer Gedankenblase mit einem Berg Kleidung und glaubt, dass sie nichts mehr gegen Fast Fashion tun kann. Illustration: Irem Kurt

Is the booming secondhand market the change maker in the garment industry? Is it a herald of an “exit fast fashion” movement? This discussion paper analyzes the conditions under which the secondhand boom can contribute to a more economically just and environmentally friendly sector. How can the secondhand trend be shaped in such a way that it contributes to a just transition?

It is urgent: the EU textile strategy aims at more circular use of resources, but regulations on human rights due diligence in supply chains are under pressure in Europe.

Article number: DP 2026-07
Year of publication: 2026
Number of pages: 9 pages
Authors: Jiska Gojowczyk and Alina Matt

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