Geopolitics of Fashion. Glocal Power Evidence and Design Activism for Leading Disrupting Textile Debris in Chile

Abstract

The relocation of the textile industry has resulted in both linkages and disruptions within the regions where they have been established. Due to the creation of textile dumps, the territorial links of the textile industry in Chilean territory, specifically in Alto Hospicio, have modified the social and environmental landscape. This study investigates the relationship between global textile production networks and the environmental and social effects of textile debris entering Iquique. Furthermore, how would it be possible to make it visible and raise awareness to seek viable future solutions through design activism actions. The research was carried out based on field interviews, techniques of “conversation in action” (Flores, 2013) from the perspective of Grounded Theory, a research trip to the north of Chile, as well as the review of Chilean legislation, similar case studies, and literature related to the functioning of the global fashion system from a geopolitical standpoint.