WINNER ‘Progress toward circularity’ Marie Claire Sustainability Awards 2023

How policy will affect the future of textile waste and impact business

This research looks at the incentives for businesses to begin exploring more sustainable routes to manage textile waste. In light of the growing concern about our impact on the climate and the sustainability of the goods we produce, governments across the world are researching and implementing measures to reduce textile waste. One such measure is Extended Producer Responsibility, or EPR, a legislative strategy that holds producers accountable for the environmental impact of materials they circulate. Whilst the discourse around textiles EPR in the UK is still in its infancy, the forecast points to developments in this area.

In this report, we cover three primary areas: UK textile policy, EU policy, and non-legislative incentives to begin the transition into a circular economy. Some key takeaways are as follows:

  • The UK has seen a shift towards taking greater action promoting sustainable business practices. However, environmental plans for textile waste are still in development.
  • EU legislation requires action on textile waste by 2025, with various strategies employed by member states.
  • There exists numerous non-legislative incentives for businesses to focus on textile waste management, including B-Corp certification and ESG directives.
To access this research paper, produced by Yodomo and LSE researchers as part of a Practera project, please complete the form below: