RMIT Vice Chancellor’s Principal Research Fellowship 

Exploring pathways towards just and regenerative textile economies

(2025-2029)

Rimi Khan

This research investigates the cultural and community impacts of regenerative materials within sustainable textile economies. Focusing on hemp production in Australia and Vietnam, the research examines how emerging hemp industries in these places can contribute to more just and sustainable fashion and textile supply chains. The research is situated in the broader context of rising concern over the environmental impacts of synthetic fibre production—such as carbon emissions, microfibre pollution, and landfill waste. This concern has driven demand for lower impact, regenerative fibres such as hemp. At the same time, localised supply chains are being promoted, both in Australia and Vietnam -- both as a sustainability strategy and as a response to geopolitical instability and unpredictable trade dynamics. The research asks how ‘local’ hemp production can contribute to a regenerative and economically viable raw materials economy within globally interconnected fashion and textile supply chains.