EuRIC’s Textiles Branch has issued a detailed manifesto containing crucial policy suggestions for achieving textile circularity across the European Union by 2030. The “EU Recyclers’ Manifesto” addresses the growing textile waste challenge, emphasizing the critical need for structural reform.
. EuRIC warns of the dire environmental effects of ongoing landfilling and incineration, given that EU people produce about 16 kg of textile waste yearly, of which only a small portion is adequately recycled. The manifesto highlights how Europe’s textile recycling industry is confronted with previously unheard-of difficulties, which are made worse by growing expenses, declining demand, and the quick spread of ultra-fast fashion.
EuRIC Textiles is advocating for a multifaceted strategy that includes boosting the usage of recycled textile fibers, prolonging the life of textile products, and significantly increasing textile recycling rates, which are currently less than 1% for new apparel. “By creating an environment where innovation thrives and circularity is rewarded, EuRIC aims to reduce the textile sector’s environmental impact, boost textile circularity in Europe, and create new economic opportunities for reuse and recycling operators. Our Textiles Manifesto outlines the steps to achieve this”, said Mariska Boer, President of EuRIC’s Textiles Branch.
The manifesto calls for the EU to enact important policy measures, including ecodesign rules, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs, and the use of Digital Product Passports (DPP) to improve consumer education, in order to accomplish these objectives. In order to maintain openness and fight greenwashing, EuRIC is also advocating for EU End-of-Waste standards, fair-trade policies, balanced chemicals laws, and more stringent compliance monitoring.
