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Research Paper | Textile Science and Technology | Volume 15 Issue 8, August 2026 | Pages: 2068 - 2071 | Sri Lanka
Generation Z and Secondhand Clothing in Sri Lanka: Exploring Sustainable Behaviors and Circular Economy Potential
Abstract: The environmental consequences of fast fashion have intensified global concern regarding unsustainable consumption patterns in the apparel industry. Secondhand clothing (SHC) has emerged as a practical and scalable response aligned with circular economy principles, yet its adoption remains culturally and contextually uneven. This study investigates the perceptions, motivations, and behavioral patterns of Generation Z consumers in Sri Lanka toward SHC, while evaluating its potential to contribute to sustainable consumption and waste reduction. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative data from a structured survey (n=150) conducted across all 25 districts of Sri Lanka with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews (n=25), analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis respectively, within a Theory of Planned Behavior framework. Findings reveal that although Generation Z demonstrates moderate awareness of sustainability issues, their understanding of SHC as an environmentally responsible practice remains limited, with economic considerations, particularly affordability and cost savings, emerging as the dominant drivers of adoption. Conversely, hygiene concerns, entrenched social stigma, and limited market transparency act as critical barriers, producing a pronounced attitude-behavior gap. Despite these constraints, a growing openness toward SHC is evident, particularly if social perceptions shift and accessibility improves. The study concludes that targeted awareness strategies, market development, and cultural normalization are essential to position SHC as a mainstream sustainable consumption practice in Sri Lanka.
Keywords: Generation Z; Secondhand clothing; Sustainable consumption; Circular economy; Consumer behavior
How to Cite?: Thushari Wanniarachchi, "Generation Z and Secondhand Clothing in Sri Lanka: Exploring Sustainable Behaviors and Circular Economy Potential", Volume 15 Issue 8, August 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 2068-2071, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26824143842, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26824143842