Post-consumer fashion disposal behaviour and its implications for circular facilities management: evidence from Sri Lankan gen z consumers

Abstract

Addressing the negative effects of fast fashion waste on the environment, this paper is intended to investigate post-consumer behaviour in fashion disposal practices. The research was conducted as a qualitative study, where participants were interviewed with semi-structured questions. The study examined Jacoby's Disposition Decision Model as a framework to investigate how the Sri Lankan Gen Z consumers dispose of their clothing, while exploring the factors that affect those decisions. The findings show that disposing of clothing is not a purely rational or environmentally conscious decision. Instead, it is influenced by everyday factors like cultural norms, sentimental attachment to clothing, inadequate infrastructure for disposal, and straightforward practicality. The study also presents a context-specific modification of Jacoby’s model, identifying six key context-specific disposal methods within the targeted population. The findings of this study will facilitate the stakeholders within the post-consumer waste ecosystem in Sri Lanka to form effective strategic decisions towards a circular economy.