EU Adopts New Rules to Tackle Textile Waste

Vol. 1492 | 15 Sep 2025

The European Parliament adopted new rules requiring producers to cover the costs of textile collection, sorting, reuse, and recycling in the EU. Eco-modulated fees favor durable products; national EPR schemes must be established within 30 months, with extra time for micro-enterprises.

What It Means for Your Business?

The European Parliament has taken a decisive step in the fight against textile waste by adopting new rules that will transform how clothing and household textiles are managed at end-of-life. With EU citizens generating on average 12 kg of textile waste per person each year, the new law places responsibility firmly on the producers.

For businesses operating in the EU textile and fashion markets, this is a regulatory shift that cannot be ignored.

What’s Changing?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

• Producers pay: All companies making textiles available in the EU – including those selling online from outside the bloc – must cover the costs of collecting, sorting, re-using and recycling their products.
• Wide scope: Clothing, footwear, fashion accessories and household textiles (e.g. curtains, blankets, bed linen) are included. Member States can also decide to add mattresses.
• Timeline: Each Member State must establish its EPR scheme within 30 months of the directive entering into force. Micro-enterprises will have one extra year.

Spotlight on Fast Fashion

• Eco-modulated fees: Products that are durable, repairable and recyclable will benefit from lower fees.
• Fast fashion models that rely on volume and low durability will face higher charges, reflecting their greater environmental impact.

Why It Matters?

• Costs are shifting – The financial burden of managing textile waste is moving from taxpayers to producers.
• Compliance is complex – While the framework is EU-wide, each Member State will design its own scheme, creating possible variations in fees and enforcement.
• Supply chains will feel the pressure – EU buyers are likely to demand more sustainable materials and circular design from their global suppliers.
• Consumer behaviour is critical – Success will depend on public participation in new collection and return systems.

Opportunities Ahead

While these rules pose challenges, they also open new doors for businesses ready to adapt:

• Design for Circularity: Products built for durability and recyclability will reduce EPR costs and enhance brand reputation.
• Innovation in Recycling: Fibre-to-fibre recycling and advanced sorting technologies are set for growth.
• New Business Models: Rental, resale and repair services can add value while cutting waste.
• Brand Differentiation: Companies that act early can position themselves as leaders in sustainability and compliance.

How to Prepare?

• Review your product portfolio: Identify where design improvements can cut future EPR fees.
• Engage with upcoming national schemes: Monitor developments across EU markets to stay ahead of compliance differences.
• Collaborate across the value chain: Work with suppliers, recyclers and retailers to embed circular solutions.
• Communicate with consumers: Help them understand how and where to return textiles for reuse and recycling.

The Bottom Line

The EU’s new rules represent more than compliance — they are a call to action for a circular future in textiles. Businesses that embrace this transition now will not only stay compliant but also strengthen customer trust, reduce costs, and unlock new market opportunities.

 

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