Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Textiles EPR in the EU
Evolving EU Textiles EPR laws
As Europe tightens regulations, it’s important for textile producers to adapt to new extended producer responsibility (EPR) Laws. The textile industry is entering a transformative phase as Europe moves forward with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. Textiles EPR is encouraging companies to address the environmental impact of their products. Here’s an in-depth look at the key components of the EU’s textiles EPR landscape, what businesses need to know, and how they can prepare for compliance.
Understanding the Legislative Push
Europe’s move toward textile EPR is driven in two significant legislative frameworks revisions the Waste Framework Directive (WFD) and the Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP). The WFD mandates that all EU Member States implement separate textile waste collection by January 1, 2025. Requiring municipalities to have the infrastructure in place for the separate collection and sorting of textile waste, diverting it from general waste. It is essential to note that the start date for this collection mandate is January 2025. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) implementation is pending, with draft legislation allowing 18 months after the law begins. However, the exact start date for EPR remains to be decided.
The CEAP further supports this initiative by introducing eco-design requirements and digital product passports to help track products’ environmental impact. These efforts are crucial because the textile sector in the EU ranks third in water and land use pressure and fifth in greenhouse gas emissions.
The Current Landscape of Textiles EPR in the EU
As of November 2024, several countries have implemented or are preparing for EPR regulations that vary in scope. Here’s a snapshot of requirements in some key markets:
France: In 2008, France implemented one of the most comprehensive EPR schemes, covering clothing, accessories, household linens, and shoes intended for private household use. Producers selling in France must comply with specific reporting requirements, including the total number of units and detailed product types. What’s more are encouraged to meet eco-modulation standards that reward sustainable design choices.
Hungary: In Hungary, producers must report textile product weight per detailed categories and pay compliance fees of 145 HUF per kilogram (around €0.45).
Latvia: Latvia requires a fee of €0.50 per kilogram with similar weight-based reporting as Hungary. Latvia offers a reduced fee of €0.13 / per kilogram once registered with Latvia’s national scheme.
Netherlands: Dutch regulations require companies to join a compliance scheme, with fees based on product weight (around €0.10 per kilogram, expected to rise in 2025). Compliance schemes are designed to accommodate both domestic and international producers selling to Dutch end-users.
Producer Obligations: Reporting, Fees & Eco-Modulation
EPR compliance requires companies to report annually on the volume of textiles placed on the market. The reporting scope varies, but generally covers categories such as consumer clothing, footwear, and household linens. Compliance fees are typically calculated based on product weight, with some countries adjusting fees based on eco-modulation criteria—rewarding products that prioritize durability, recycled materials, and eco-friendly labels.
For instance, France offers eco-modulation bonuses for textiles that meet specific sustainability standards, encouraging producers to consider the environmental impact of their designs.
Consumer Information and Labelling Requirements
To increase transparency, some EU countries mandate specific consumer information disclosures. France requires that products carry the Triman label and other sorting information to guide consumers in proper disposal. Additionally, companies with certain thresholds must publish product information online, such as the inclusion of recycled materials, the presence of hazardous substances, and the locations of production stages.
With the idea by providing this information, companies help consumers make informed choices and contribute to reducing textile waste.
Preparing for the Future: Italy’s ReDress Compliance Scheme
To support textile producers in managing these complex requirements, compliance schemes like ReDress in Italy offer resources and regulatory support. ReDress not only keeps companies updated on the latest legislation but also facilitates engagement with Italian regulatory authorities, helping members navigate compliance and advocating for producers’ interests.
Italy’s ReDress scheme support the EU’s shift toward more structured, collective approaches to textile EPR, giving producers the tools to stay compliant while contributing to a circular economy.
How to Stay Ahead in the EPR Transition
With EPR regulations quickly evolving, companies are encouraged to consult compliance experts for guidance. RLG provide tailored compliance solutions and regular updates on EPR developments across the EU.
By proactively adopting these sustainable practices, textile producers not only ensure compliance but also position themselves as leaders in responsible manufacturing—helping to drive the industry toward a more sustainable future.
If you want support with your businesses Textiles Compliance strategy, contact us today
