The Socio-economic and Environmental Impacts of a Just Transition to a Circular Sudan’s Cotton Economy, Dr Ramadan Mohmmed, Prof. Hasabo Ahmed, Dr Azzam Ahmed

Dr Ramadan Mohmmed 
Sudan University of Science and Technology (Sudan)
Istanbul Technical University (Turkey)
Professor Hasabo Ahmed
Sudan University of Science and Technology (Sudan)
Istanbul Technical University (Turkey)
ORCID: 0000-0002-5095-8650
Dr Azzam Ahmed
Sudan University of Science and Technology
Sudan

Abstract: Transition to a circular economy in the cotton industry carries profound socio-economic and environmental implications, particularly in major producing and manufacturing regions. This paper explores how the integration of recycled cotton reshapes labor conditions, employment patterns, and community livelihoods. While reduced reliance on virgin cotton may challenge traditional farming and textile jobs, the shift also opens opportunities for green employment in recycling, sorting, and repair sectors. The analysis further considers the environmental advantages of circular practices, including lower water use, reduced pesticide dependence, and decreased energy consumption, while examining how these benefits are distributed across regions with differing resource constraints. Emphasizing the principles of a just transition, the study highlights the need for policy frameworks that balance ecological sustainability with social equity, ensuring that workers and communities are not marginalized in the shift. Ultimately, this research contributes to understanding how a circular cotton economy can advance sustainability goals while fostering fair and inclusive development.

Keyword: Circular Economy, Environmental Impacts, Sudan’s Cotton, Textiles and Apparel.