The European Commission has adopted new rules banning the destruction of unsold light industry goods—clothing, clothing accessories, and footwear. The goal is to reduce textile waste, lower CO₂ emissions, and accelerate the transition to a circular economy.
According to the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), which came into force in July 2024, the destruction of unsold clothing and footwear will be prohibited for large companies as early as July 19, 2026. For medium-sized companies, the ban will come into effect in July 2030. Micro and small businesses are exempt from this ban.
An estimated 4 to 9% of unsold, unused textiles are destroyed in Europe each year. This generates approximately 5.6 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions—almost as much as Sweden’s annual net emissions in 2021.
Companies are required to seek alternatives: resale, recycling, donation, reuse, or recycling.
“This step responds to consumer concerns about the impact of fast fashion on the environment and society. We are creating a level playing field for businesses and accelerating the textile industry’s transition to more sustainable practices,” the European Commission noted.
The rules are part of a broader EU strategy on sustainable and circular textiles. The list of product categories banned from destruction may be expanded in the future.