ReFiber, powered by OterRi, launched Mumbai’s Mega Post-Consumer Textile Waste Collection & Upcycling Initiative on World Environment Day 2026, with the aim of building a circular textile ecosystem through the collection, recovery, and upcycling of post-consumer textile waste.
As part of the initiative, ReFiber conducted a city-wide textile collection drive from June 5–12, encouraging Mumbai residents to donate used garments through the Oterri app. The drive sought to reduce textile waste while creating employment for women artisans who transformed discarded fabrics into handcrafted products.
The event also saw the unveiling of the ReFiber Upcycled Products Marketplace, showcasing products made by women artisans associated with Tisser. The platform is designed to convert textile waste into marketable goods while supporting sustainable livelihoods and self-help groups. Discussions at the event covered technology-driven solutions for textile waste management, circularity in India’s textile sector, and partnerships for a zero-waste future.
Vrunda Desai, textile commissioner, Maharashtra Government, said, “India has made significant progress in textile recycling and circularity, but there is still immense potential to recover and repurpose post-consumer textile waste from our households. Initiatives like ReFiber’s collection and upcycling drive demonstrate how collaboration between government, industry and citizens can transform textile waste into a valuable resource while creating sustainable livelihoods. Through greater awareness, innovation and participation, we can accelerate the transition towards a more circular and sustainable textile ecosystem.”
Megha Phansalkar, founder, Tisser, said, “At Tisser, we believe that waste is simply a resource waiting to be reimagined. Through textile upcycling, we are transforming discarded fabrics into products of value while creating livelihood opportunities and empowering women. Initiatives like ReFiber make it easier for citizens to participate in the circular economy and contribute meaningfully towards reducing textile waste. Building a sustainable future requires collective action, and every garment diverted from landfill is a step towards a more responsible and circular world.”
Manoj Wanvari, COO, ReFiber and OterRi, said, “The launch of ReFiber marks the beginning of a collective movement towards a more circular and responsible textile ecosystem. Through our technology platform, collection network and partnerships across the value chain, we aim to make textile waste recovery simple, accessible and impactful for every citizen. What is often perceived as waste is, in reality, a valuable resource that can be recovered, upcycled and brought back into the economy. With ReFiber, we are enabling consumers to play an active role in reducing textile waste while supporting sustainable livelihoods and accelerating circularity in the textile sector.”
Sanjay Kataria, president, Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), said, “This initiative is not just about collecting used garments, it is about creating a movement that transforms waste into opportunity. By bringing together industry, government, civil society and citizens, we are taking a meaningful step towards building a circular textile ecosystem that reduces landfill waste, conserves resources and empowers women through upcycling. At CMAI, we believe sustainability and growth must go hand in hand, and we are proud to support an initiative that creates both environmental and social impact.”
