Woolcycle

Woolcycle is a term used in discussions of sustainable wool textiles to describe an integrated or closed-loop approach to wool production, processing, and reuse. The term is not standardized and may be used differently across contexts; some writers describe it as a framework for tracing wool from the sheep to the garment and back into reuse or recycling.

Origin and usage: The word combines "wool" with "cycle" to emphasize lifecycle thinking and circular economy principles, focusing on keeping wool fibers in use and reducing waste.

Process: The typical woolcycle involves responsible wool sourcing and shearing; cleaning, sorting, and scouring to remove contaminants; carding, combing, and spinning to produce yarn; garment making; consumer use; collection and treatment of post-consumer or post-industrial wool; recycling or upcycling into new fibers or materials, potentially including felting or blending with other fibers.

Environmental and economic considerations: The woolcycle aims to reduce waste and energy use, extend product lifespans, and support rural livelihoods. Realized benefits depend on collection rates, fiber quality retention, and the energy mix of processing facilities, among other factors.

Relation to existing concepts: The woolcycle intersects with circular economy, textile recycling, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable fashion. It should not be confused with the domestic washing machine "wool cycle" for gentle washing, which addresses garment care rather than fiber lifecycle management.

Examples and status: Some textile researchers and brands explore pilot woolcycle programs, but there is no universal standard for how to implement or measure success. Outcomes range from lower landfill input to higher fiber purity for recycling.

See also: circular economy, textile recycling, sustainable fashion.