Abstract

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The clothing and textile industry is one of the most resource-intensive sectors globally, characterised by high waste generation and energy consumption. In Nigeria, these challenges are compounded by rising youth unemployment, particularly among youths with skills in clothing and textile production. This study examined the role of technology and innovation in reducing waste and energy consumption, the contribution of clothing and textile careers to sustainable livelihoods, and strategies for enhancing youth empowerment in Bade Local Government Area. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 330 skilled youths using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were employed for data analysis. The results showed that technology and innovation effectively promote sustainability in clothing and textile production, with a grand mean of 3.03 (SD = 0.97). Training on sustainable production methods (Mean = 3.18) and the use of digital cutting and design software (Mean = 3.12) were the most effective practices, while solar-powered equipment (Mean = 2.91) and eco-friendly dyes (Mean = 2.85) were moderately effective. Clothing and textile careers contributed significantly to sustainable livelihoods, recording a grand mean of 3.12 (SD = 0.93), with tailoring and textile entrepreneurship emerging as major sources of income and employment (Mean = 3.21 each). Strategies for youth empowerment were also rated effective (Grand Mean = 3.03; SD = 0.97), particularly the establishment of training centres (Mean = 3.18) and access to modern technologies (Mean = 3.09). The study concludes that integrating modern technologies with clothing and textile skills can reduce environmental impact while enhancing youth livelihood security. It recommends strengthened vocational training, improved access to sustainable technologies, and increased policy and industry support to maximise the benefits of sustainable textile practices in Nigeria.

Keywords: Technology, Innovation, Waste Reduction, Energy Consumption, Sustainable Clothing, Textile, Youth Empowerment.