Textile waste is a growing global concern - and Iceland is no exception. In response to this pressing issue, Icelandic Textile Center (ITC) hosted “Spjörum okkur,” a half-day workshop designed to spark new ideas and approaches to textile waste management.

The workshop, held as part of the ITC’s Annual Board Meeting, also served as a stepping stone toward Textile Accelerator. Using the Design Thinking methodology, participants created a collaborative space for dialogue and innovation.

The event brought together 20 representatives from across Northwest Iceland, including voices from regional municipalities, educational institutions, industry leaders, and other stakeholders. Their shared mission: to explore bold, creative solutions to the textile waste problem.

Participants were divided into four themed groups:

• Education

• Recycling

• Waste Collection

• Business Models

Each team focused on identifying challenges and uncovering opportunities within their topic area. The Education and Recycling groups, in particular, explored the relevance of TCK (Traditional Crafts Knowledge) as a meaningful asset in the broader textile sustainability landscape.

From Discussion to Action

“Spjörum okkur” was more than a workshop - the ideas and insights gathered during the event are now being compiled into a report by SSNV, the Association of Municipalities in Northwest Iceland. This report will help guide strategic efforts going forward.