Revolution in the European Textile Industry: A Historic Agreement Against the Destruction of Unsold Garments
Brussels, 5th December 2023 – A major announcement has shaken the European textile industry: the European Parliament and the Member States of the European Union have reached an unprecedented agreement to ban the destruction of unsold new clothes. This decision, announced on 5 December, goes hand in hand with a desire to strengthen the eco-design of many consumer goods to facilitate their recycling. The agreement marks a significant step forward in the fight against waste and the promotion of a more circular economy.
Context and Announcement of the Agreement
The announcement of this agreement was made jointly by the European Parliament and the EU Member States. Stakeholders have stressed the importance of this initiative in meeting growing environmental challenges and transforming industrial practices to make them more sustainable.
The new legislation, initially proposed by the European Commission for March 2022, is intended to be a catalyst for significant changes in the design, production and management of consumer products. It aims to limit the environmental impact of goods throughout their life cycle, from manufacture to disposal.
The Main Measures of the Agreement
Ban on the destruction of unsold clothing and footwear:
The agreement announces a ban on the destruction of unsold new clothes and shoes. This measure, welcomed by environmentalists, marks a major step towards putting an end to a common practice in the fashion industry.
Transition and Adaptation Period for Companies :
The ban on destruction will take effect two years after the law comes into force. Large businesses will have six years to adjust, while small businesses will be exempt. The European Commission will have the power to extend this ban to other product categories.
Transparency and accountability for large companies:
Large companies will be required to disclose the volume of products scrapped each year, with explanations to justify these practices. The aim is to encourage these companies to gradually abandon practices that are damaging to the environment.
Priority Eco-design for Certain Consumer Goods :
The European Commission will define specific requirements for certain consumer goods to encourage the circular economy. Particular attention will be paid to ‘high-impact’ products, such as textiles, furniture, iron and steel, aluminium, tyres and electronic products.
Introduction of the « Digital Passport » :
A « digital passport » in the form of a QR Code will be introduced for clothing and a wide range of consumer products. This code will contain information enabling consumers and businesses to measure the environmental impact of their purchases, thus facilitating more responsible choices. It will also provide details of product traceability and the materials used, encouraging repair and recycling.
Implications and reactions
1.Impact on the textile industry :
This ban on the destruction of unsold clothing will have a major impact on the textile industry. Brands will have to rethink their production, stock management and unsold stock management practices. The emphasis on repair and recycling is likely to lead to a rethinking of clothing design to make it more durable and easy to care for.
2. Transition to a Circular Economy :
The agreement reflects the European Union’s desire to make the transition to a more circular economy. By focusing on eco-design and extending the life of products, it seeks to reduce dependence on virgin resources and minimise environmental impact, while encouraging reuse and recycling.
3.Transparency and Corporate Responsibility :
The obligation for large companies to disclose the volume of discarded products is an innovative measure to increase transparency and make these players more accountable. This could also influence consumers’ choices in favour of more ethical and sustainable brands.
4.Reactions from European employers :
Although European business welcomed the agreement as having the potential to create a strong market for circular products, concerns were expressed that the information requirements were potentially unworkable. This underlines the challenge that these changes represent for businesses in terms of implementation and compliance.
Future prospects
This historic agreement still has to be formally approved by MEPs in plenary session and by the Member States. The announcement of this agreement has been hailed as a major step towards more responsible production and more sustainable consumption within the European Union. The next steps will involve in-depth discussions on the practical implementation of these measures, as well as the adjustments needed to ensure a smooth transition to a more circular economy.
The European textile industry, while facing immediate compliance challenges, is also invited to see this development as an opportunity to rethink its business models, stimulate innovation in product design and adopt more sustainable practices for the future.
It is with this circular economy, in mind that CircularPlace has developed a marketplacewhich allows you to sell your equipment, goods and unsold non-food items between professionals, and puts you in touch with voluntary organisations to recover your products.
You can also opt for a white label solution that will allow your company to circularize your equipment internally and to engage your employees around ecological themes.
Don’t throw away any more, opt for the second hand!
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