Textile Extended Producer Responsibility: Helping you meet global textile regulations

Does your business have obligations under textile EPR Regulations?

Your business is likely to have a textile waste obligation if it: Produces, imports, or distributes textiles via local networks or distance selling.

Key updates under the revised EU rules: All businesses engaged in these activities will be obligated to comply. Businesses with fewer than 10 employees or an annual turnover below €2 million will still be included, but will have reduced reporting requirements.

Why early action is essential

Companies acting early on textiles extended producer responsibility can:

• Forecast textile EPR costs in advance to manage budgets and avoid unexpected fees
• Reduce future fees by making design and material changes now
• Build customer trust by leading on sustainability ahead of enforcement deadlines
• Avoid last-minute disruption in operations and supply chains
• Respond faster to retailer and investor ESG requirements

How can [Employer hidden] help?

We offer a range of services, which form part of Reconomy’s wider Textile EPR solution, that can be tailored to your needs. These include:

• Horizon Scanning: We will use our international expertise to keep you informed of upcoming legislation and assess the impact on your business
• Data Management: We will engage with your suppliers to collect textile weight and material blend data, then present insights to you through our online platform backed by a team of 100 analysts
• International Compliance: We will remove the administrative and resource-intensive burden of complying in every relevant country, offering a range of services that can be tailored to suit your business’s needs
• Textile EPR Impact Assessment: We will help you stay ahead of upcoming regulations, understand your obligations, and prepare financially

Our Textile EPR solution is here to assist your business in getting ready for the world of textiles EPR.

[Employer hidden] is part of Reconomy, an expert at managing millions of product returns for top fashion and homeware brands each year, achieving a remarkable 20% decrease in carbon intensity for its customers since 2020.

The collective, specialist skills and services of key Reconomy brands will simplify the complexities of textiles EPR, giving you the best and easiest way to stay ahead of the game. Via our holistic Textile EPR solution, we can provide additional support in the following areas:

• Omni-channel take-back
• Repair

Data and cost solutions

• Data health check
• Weights collection
• Cost forecasting

Transform textile sustainability with Rio: Simplify, track, and lead

The Rio sustainability platform is a powerful solution for businesses in the textile industry seeking to enhance their sustainability efforts and manage voluntary initiatives with ease. With a continuously evolving landscape of environmental, social, and sustainability standards, Rio simplifies complex processes with its all-in-one, data-driven approach.

Rio enables textile companies to track and manage data for voluntary takeback schemes, helping them measure and report on the collection, reuse, and recycling of materials. The platform’s sustainability tracking capabilities also allow businesses to monitor their environmental impact, including water use, chemical safety, and carbon footprint.

By consolidating all this information in one place, Rio supports textile companies in implementing impactful sustainability initiatives. Features like automated alerts, comprehensive auditing tools, and real-time reporting enable businesses to respond effectively to new opportunities and build trust with consumers and stakeholders.

FAQs

What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a regulatory approach that makes producers accountable for the end-of-life impact of their textile products, including collection, recycling, and disposal of those items. For textiles, there is also significant focus on keeping textiles in use for longer by reusing them or repairing them.

Who will need to comply with UK textiles EPR?

Textiles EPR is not yet in place in the UK, but it is expected to be introduced in the coming years as part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainability and reduce textile waste. Businesses likely to be affected include manufacturers, importers, and retailers of textiles. While the exact timeline is not confirmed, staying informed and preparing early can help businesses adapt smoothly when the regulations come into effect.

When will textiles EPR be introduced in the UK?

Textile EPR is currently being implemented in many other countries in Europe and further afield, and UK companies that sell into these markets are likely to have obligations in these countries. Partnering with us ensures you’re ready to meet future requirements. Our global footprint means we are the only UK compliance scheme offering a global compliance solution for textiles.

What types of textiles are covered under existing EPR regulations?

Textiles covered typically include clothing, footwear, home furnishings, and other fabric-based products. Specific guidelines may vary based on local or national requirements.

Contact us on [contact hidden] for an obligation assessment.

How can [Employer hidden] help my business comply with textile EPR requirements?

We offer a comprehensive range of services to help businesses navigate textile EPR requirements, including data reporting, compliance management, and sustainability consultancy. As part of Reconomy, we have access to the collective skills and expertise of other industry-leading brands. This allows us to provide a holistic Textile Compliance service that combines our extensive knowledge of compliance frameworks with the innovative solutions and capabilities of our sister brands. Our collaborative approach ensures we can address every aspect of textile EPR, from regulatory reporting to implementing sustainable waste and recycling strategies. With this robust network of expertise, we are uniquely positioned to support your business in meeting its obligations and achieving its sustainability goals.

Does [Employer hidden] support businesses with international textile compliance?

Yes, we offer International Compliance services to help businesses navigate textile EPR regulations in countries where they are already in place. For example, France implemented textiles EPR more than a decade ago, and requires producers to report and contribute to the system organised by the Producer Responsibility Organisation, ReFashion. Other European nations, such as the Netherlands already have their own legislation, whilst others such as Italy and Sweden are also developing similar schemes. By partnering with us, businesses can stay compliant with these regulations, avoid penalties, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability on a global scale. Our expertise ensures that businesses are well-prepared to adapt to evolving requirements in existing and emerging textile EPR markets.

How do the fees or funding mechanisms typically work under textile EPR?

Most EPR programmes employ a system where producers contribute financially based on product weight or volume. The funds raised often support collection, sorting, and recycling initiatives. Our experts can help you understand the cost implications of textile EPR.

What happens if my business fails to comply with textile EPR regulations?

Non-compliance can lead to penalties, fines, or reputational damage. The scale of the penalties varies depending on nation. Working with us helps businesses avoid these risks.

Are there any thresholds or exemptions for smaller businesses?

In many existing EPR programmes, small businesses under certain thresholds are exempt or have reduced reporting requirements. The exact criteria will depend on each country’s legislation. We’ll provide more details once the UK legislation is announced.

What are the benefits of preparing early for textile EPR?

By evaluating product design, materials sourcing, and supply chains now, you can reduce your environmental impact and potentially lower EPR-related costs once the legislation goes live. Early adopters also gain a competitive edge and bolster their brand reputation as sustainability leaders.

Does textile EPR apply to products sold online or through e-commerce?

Yes, textile EPR obligations generally apply to any business placing products onto the market, including e-commerce. If you sell to consumers in countries with existing EPR schemes, you are likely subject to those rules regardless of your physical presence.

How much does it cost to comply with textile EPR regulations?

Costs vary depending on the country, the volume and type of products sold, and the producer responsibility organisation (PRO) you’re registered with. Fees may also be influenced by the recyclability and environmental impact of your products (see Eco-modulation).

What is eco-modulation?

Eco-modulation is a system that adjusts compliance fees based on the environmental performance of your products. More sustainable textiles, those that are recyclable, made from recycled content, or have a lower environmental impact, may attract lower fees.

Which countries have implemented textiles Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and what are the requirements?

Textiles EPR is growing quickly across Europe. France introduced it in 2008, requiring PRO membership, eco-modulated fees, and meeting collection/recycling targets. The Netherlands launched in July 2023 with registration, reporting, and take-back obligations. Latvia followed in March 2023 with reporting and recycling targets. Italy and Sweden are expected to introduce schemes in 2025, both likely involving PRO participation, reporting, and recycling/take-back requirements. Plus, Spain has announced its draft Textile EPR Decree. We continiously monitors international textiles EPR legislation to ensure your business can stay compliant across multiple markets. Find out more about how we can support your international textile compliance requirements our Textiles Horizon Scanning service.

Do I need a physical presence in a country to have textile obligations?

Under textile EPR regulations, you can still be considered an obligated producer even if you don’t have a physical presence in the country. For example, selling directly to consumers or retailers via e-commerce or distribution channels can trigger obligations. Each country defines “producer” differently, so it’s important to assess your activities on a case-by-case basis.

What is a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO)?

A Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) is a third-party entity that helps producers meet their Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations. This includes managing tasks like collecting fees, ensuring recycling targets are met, and handling reporting requirements. PROs take on the operational and administrative responsibilities of EPR compliance. Their services typically include:

• Collecting and managing EPR-related fees
• Coordinating recycling and recovery efforts
• Submitting required reports to regulatory bodies
• Ensuring producers meet legal and environmental targets

We help customers navigate the complexities of textile EPR by:

• Advising on the selection of the right PRO for your needs
• Facilitating partnerships with trusted PROs
• Streamlining compliance processes to reduce your administrative workload

The impact of textile waste

Textile waste is a growing environmental concern that affects our planet in numerous ways. Every year, millions of tonnes of clothing end up in landfills, contributing to pollution and the depletion of natural resources. The production and disposal of textiles also release harmful chemicals into the environment, impacting wildlife and human health.

Watch our video to learn more about the significant impact of textile waste.

Watch our video

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