In the heart of India’s textile industry, a revolution is brewing, one that could reshape the global fashion landscape and send ripples through the energy sector. At the forefront of this transformation is Sadurya G., a researcher from the Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences in Coimbatore, who is exploring how blockchain technology can address some of the most pressing challenges in textile manufacturing.
The textile industry is a thirsty beast, consuming vast amounts of water and energy, and generating significant waste and carbon emissions. But what if there was a way to make the supply chain more transparent, efficient, and sustainable? That’s where blockchain comes in.
Blockchain, the technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, is a decentralized and immutable ledger that records transactions across multiple computers. In the context of textiles, it can track the journey of a product from raw material to finished garment, providing an unprecedented level of transparency.
Sadurya G.’s research, published in the Textile and Leather Review, focuses on how blockchain can be applied in the textile industry within supply chain efficiency, transparency and resource usage. “Blockchain provides a decentralized and immutable solution that will provide transparency in the origins of the products, minimize resource waste, follow the ethical sources of the product, and foster circular economy,” G. explains.
One of the most exciting aspects of this technology is its potential to reduce overproduction, a significant issue in the fashion industry. By providing real-time data on demand and supply, blockchain can help manufacturers produce only what is needed, reducing waste and saving energy.
But the benefits don’t stop at the factory gate. Blockchain can also improve labor practices and implement ethical sourcing in the supply chain. “It’s about building trust,” G. says. “Consumers want to know that their clothes were made ethically, and blockchain can provide that assurance.”
The energy sector stands to gain significantly from these developments. As the textile industry becomes more efficient, its demand for energy will decrease. Moreover, the transparency provided by blockchain can help energy providers better understand their customers’ needs and optimize their supply.
One company already reaping the benefits of blockchain is Sulochana Mills, an Indian textile manufacturer. By implementing blockchain technology, Sulochana Mills has increased polyester circularity and guaranteed sustainable procurement of raw materials.
So, what does the future hold? As more companies like Sulochana Mills adopt blockchain, we can expect to see a more sustainable and ethical textile industry. But the implications go beyond fashion. This technology has the potential to revolutionize supply chains across industries, from food to pharmaceuticals.
As Sadurya G. puts it, “The use of blockchain technology will eradicate overproduction while also lowering water and energy usage.” It’s a bold claim, but one that’s backed by solid research. As we look to the future, it’s clear that blockchain is set to play a significant role in shaping a more sustainable and ethical world.
