Circularity means extending the life of resources that would otherwise end up in a landfill. But recirculation is not limited to material resources. Social networks, community assets, and industrial traditions can also be repurposed, raising the question: how can innovations in material circularity be attentive to social inclusion and outcomes? We address this through the case of Material Return, a textile initiative in Western North Carolina that transforms textile waste into high-quality fiber and yarn while supporting smaller firms, stabilizing jobs, and elevating worker voice. By highlighting the enabling institutional arrangements and practices that allow Material Return to combine material and societal circularity, this case offers lessons for other cities and regions seeking to align environmental sustainability with social equity.
Lowe et al. (2026) studied this question.