Status Quo Analysis - Textile Sector

4.3. System Map Analysis

Mapping the chemical traceability systems for textiles and carpets reveals a complex interplay of stakeholders, processes, and challenges, reflecting the current state of both industries’ commitment to transparency and sustainability. A system map provides a visual framework for understanding the connections and dependencies within the value chain, identifying gaps, and uncovering leverage points for systemic improvement.

The key opportunity for advancing chemical traceability lies in establishing a globally harmonized digital transparency and traceability system for all manufactured materials and products. This comprehensive approach should incorporate digital product passports and a global database accessible to all value chain stakeholders. While existing systems like GUT-PRODIS provide a foundation, the focus should shift from regional solutions - like European Union market coverage - to implementing consistent chemical traceability standards worldwide. This global system would enable better tracking and management of chemical content across product lifecycles and international markets (HEJSupport, n.d.).

As advanced by (Kiekens et al., 2022), a system map serves as a visual representation of complex adaptive systems, illustrating causal relationships and interconnections between various elements to reveal emergent patterns and self-organising dynamics. This analytical tool enables researchers and policymakers to develop a holistic, multi-perspective understanding of complex issues, identify root causes, uncover feedback loops, and pinpoint strategic intervention points while incorporating principles of systems thinking and transdisciplinarity. 

The system map analysis highlights key opportunities for advancing chemical traceability in the carpet industry, including cross-industry learning and innovative business models. By leveraging best practices from other sectors, such as automotive and packaging, scalable solutions for chemical traceability can be developed and adapted to industry needs. Additionally, exploring business models like product-as-a- service, where carpets are leased instead of sold, offers a promising approach to ensuring their return to manufacturers for proper recycling and chemical accountability.