The European Commission has just adopted new measures under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) to prevent the destruction of unsold apparel, clothing, accessories, and footwear
The new rules aim to reduce waste, limit environmental damage, and promote fair competition among companies that adopt sustainable business models. They are being introduced at a time when an estimated 4 to 9% of unsold textiles are being destroyed before they have been worn, generating around 5.6 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
“The textile sector is leading the way in the transition to sustainability, but there are still challenges. The numbers on waste show the need to act. With these new measures, the textile sector will be empowered to move towards sustainable and circular practices, and we can boost our competitiveness and reduce our dependencies”, said Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy.
To address this issue, the ESPR will require companies to disclose information about discarded unsold consumer products and will introduce a ban on the destruction of unsold apparel, clothing accessories, and footwear. In practice, this will be implemented in two ways.
Delegated Act
From the 19th of July 2026, the ban on destroying unsold apparel, clothing accessories and footwear, along with the associated derogations, will apply to large companies. Medium-sized companies are expected to follow suit by 2030.
However, destruction will be permitted in specific circumstances, such as for safety reasons or due to product damage. National authorities will be responsible for overseeing compliance.
Instead, the rules on disclosure under the ESPR, which already apply to large companies, will also a apply to medium-sized companies in 2030.
Implementing Act
The Implementing Act introduces a standardised format for businesses to disclose the volumes of unsold consumer goods they discard. This will come into effect in February 2027 in order to give businesses sufficient time to adapt.
Rather than discarding stock, the EU encourages companies to manage their stock and returns more effectively and to consider alternatives such as resale, remanufacturing, donation or reuse.
Image Credits: fashiondive.com
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