Second-hand clothes and sustainability: a literature review

Szűcs, Róbert Sándor and Földi, Kata (2025) Second-hand clothes and sustainability: a literature review. CONTROLLER INFO, 13 (2025). pp. 31-40. ISSN 2063-9309

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Abstract

Our literature review explores the growing intersection of second-hand clothing and sustainability, examining how consumer behaviour, market dynamics, and environmental considerations shape the second-hand apparel market. Amid rising concerns about, the fashion industry’s environmental impact, second-hand clothing has emerged as a sustainable alternative, promoting circular economy principles and extending garment lifecycles. This review synthesizes research on consumer motivations, including cost, unique stvie acquisition, and ethical considerations that drive the second-hand clothing market. It also discusses the environmental benefits, such as reduced resource consumption and waste, highlighting the role of second-hand clothing in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. Economic analyses reveal a booming market that challenges traditional retail and reshapes global trade flows. At the same time, social and policy dimensions emphasize the need for strategics that foster broader acceptance and integration of second-hand clothing into mainstream consumer behaviour.

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