Design and production of a smart garment based on a knitted textile surface made from Recycled PET (r-PET) fibers

This study presents the design and production of wearable smart garments made from recycled PET (r-PET) fabric with a focus on environmental sustainability. The textile industry plays an integral role in daily life through products derived from both natural and synthetic fibers. However, in recent years, the increasing global population, rising income levels, and improved living standards have significantly amplified clothing production and consumption, which in turn has led to various environmental problems such as water pollution, waste generation, and excessive chemical use. In response to these issues, sustainability and recycling have become essential principles guiding eco-friendly production processes. Sustainability emphasizes the efficient use of resources while ensuring the well-being of future generations. Recycling supports this goal by minimizing environmental impact through the reprocessing of waste materials. In the textile sector, recycled plastic bottles and old garments are transformed into new, environmentally conscious products. This approach not only conserves natural resources but also reduces the volume of textile waste. Within this scope, a unisex outerwear garment was developed using r-PET fabric and integrated with photovoltaic panels capable of generating renewable energy. These panels enable charging of electronic devices and provide heat in cold weather. The product demonstrates how smart textiles can effectively unite technological functionality with environmental awareness. Keywords: Textile, Sustainability, Recycling, Fashion, Smart garments, r-PET, Wearable technology.