RFID for transparency, traceability and end-of-life handling for textiles

Purpose and goal

Digital information carriers integrated into garments has the potential to greatly increase future traceability throughout the supply chain, facilitate subsequent processes and lay the foundation for circular textile value chains. A system based on RFID-tags, with multiple functionalities responding to the needs of different actors in the textile value chain, is the future vision, and the ultimate goal. The specific objective of this project is to build knowledge and competence in regard to information system model, system for data collection and standardization need.

Expected results and effects

The objectives of our project are to work towards building the information system giving access to all necessary data throughout the value chain. A system like this is ground-breaking and has deep implications for the transformation towards a circular economy for textiles. This must be done in close cooperation between retailers, technology providers and standardization organizations.

Planned approach and implementation

The project is built around 7 work packages. Throughout the work, issues in regard to privacy and data security have priority. WP 1 Information system model and architecture concept WP 2 System for data collection WP 3 Overview of existing standards and mapping of standardization need WP 4 Proof-of-concept evaluation and collecting user feedback for future development WP 5 Cost calculations and evaluation of ROI WP 6 Implications of integrating information carriers in textile products WP 7 Project management and communication