There are some very good reasons why the EU presses on towards zero textile waste. This text explains the background of the new EU legislation in an easy-to-read way.
At the bottom of this text you find a link to the facts and numbers at EEA.

The European Environment Agency (EEA) highlights a significant environmental issue when it comes to textile waste textiles in Europe. As people continue to buy more clothes, driven by fast fashion and disposable trends, the amount of textile waste has surged. This makes it a major environmental concern. In fact, textile consumption in Europe is the fourth largest contributor to environmental and climate impacts, after food, housing, and transport.

All kinds of problems
In 2020, the European Union generated around 5.8 million tonnes of textile waste, but only a small portion of this was recycled. Most of this waste ends up in landfills or is incinerated, both of which cause serious environmental harm. The production and disposal of textiles are linked to high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and pollution, particularly in countries where environmental regulations are weak.

Circular and Sustainable
To address these challenges, the EEA (the European Environment Agency) advocates for a transition towards a more sustainable and circular textile economy. This includes promoting the design and production of durable and recyclable textiles, improving waste collection and sorting, and recycling systems. And encouraging consumers to make more sustainable choices. The EEA emphasises the need for policy measures, such as the forthcoming EU Strategy for Textiles, to focus on reducing the environmental impact of textiles throughout their lifecycle.
The EU Waste Framework Directive (WFD) mandates that from 2025, EU Member States must establish separate collection systems for used textiles.

Let’s do it together
The EEA very much stresses the importance of collective action, involving policymakers, the textile industry, and consumers, to reduce the environmental footprint of textile waste and move towards a more sustainable textile industry in Europe.

Summary

• Textile Waste. Europe generated 5.8 million tonnes of textile waste in 2020, with most ending up in landfills or being incinerated.
• Environmental Impact. Textile consumption is the fourth largest contributor to environmental harm in Europe, after food, housing, and transport.
• Sustainable Solutions. The EEA recommends focusing on durable, recyclable textiles, improving waste management, and encouraging sustainable consumer choices.
• Policy Action. The upcoming EU Strategy for Textiles aims to reduce the environmental impact of textiles throughout their lifecycle.
• Collective Responsibility. Addressing textile waste requires collaboration between policymakers, industry, and consumers.

Sources/links
Read more? See more facts about this at the European Environment Agency – just click here.

Read more about textile waste management across Europe? Click here!