The revision of the EU Waste Framework Directive introduces significant changes for the textile industry. For the first time, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) will be mandatory for textile companies and fashion brands. This means:
✅ Mandatory EPR systems in all member states: Companies will have to pay for the collection, sorting, and recycling of textiles, as well as fund activities for repair and reuse.
✅ Applies to all players – whether they operate from within the EU or sell into the EU from outside.
✅ Fee structure linked to business practices: Charges will depend not only on the percentage of recycled materials but also on company practices.
✅ E-commerce recognized as a challenge: The growing online sector is acknowledged as an issue for circularity.
❌ No reduction targets: The directive does not set any goals for reducing textile waste.
❌ No mechanism to support affected regions: Countries receiving large amounts of used textiles from the EU will not benefit from EPR funds.
❌ No producer responsibility for mattresses: The regulation does not include mattress manufacturers.
📢 Conclusion: This is an important step toward greater responsibility in the textile industry – but a true circular economy requires more than just recycling. Clear reduction targets and a fair distribution of funds are now essential!
