https://www.dw.com/en/eu-approves-ban-on-destruction-of-unsold-clothing/a-67641000

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EU approves ban on destruction of unsold clothing

12/05/2023December 5, 2023

The EU has approved a ban on the destruction of unsold clothing. New
rules will also ensure products are more enviromentally friendly and
that goods are also more easily repaired and recycled.

  
       
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Billige KleidungImage: Frank Hoermann/SVEN SIMON/picture alliance
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Negotiators from the European Parliament and EU member states on
Tuesday reached an agreement to stop large retail groups of
destroying unsold clothes and footwear.

The rules are aimed at cracking down on the impact of "fast fashion"
and reducing waste. 

What we know about the ban 

Brussels is seeking to address textile consumption in Europe, which
has the fourth highest impact on the environment and climate change
after food, housing and transport.

Although the ban in principle will begin after two years for large
businesses, exceptions have been agreed for small companies, as well
as a transitional period of six years for medium-sized companies. 

The latest agreement comes as part of a wider initiative after the
European Commission proposed changes to the bloc's so-called
ecodesign rules.

This would make products longer-lasting and easier to reuse, repair
and recycle, reducing the consumption of resources such as energy and
water.

MEP Alessandra Moretti, who spearheaded the legislation through
parliament, said: "It is time to end the model of 'take, make,
dispose' that is so harmful to our planet, our health and our
economy." 

"New products will be designed in a way that benefits all, respects
our planet and protects the environment."

The Commission will also have the power to widen the ban to other
unsold products beyond clothing and footwear.

What other materials might be effected?

Full details of requirements for individual products have not yet
been finalized with parliament and member states still needing to
officially approve the agreement, although that this is believed to
be a formality. 

The agreement outlined that the European Commission can issue legally
binding requirements to make goods such as furniture, tyres,
detergents, paints and chemicals more environmentally friendly. 

Goods must also be sold with a "digital product passport", which
could be a QR code, in order to help consumers make informed choices
about their purchases.

However, numerous raw materials such as iron, steel and aluminium are
also to be regulated accordingly in future. Exceptions are planned
for goods such as cars and military products. 

km/rc (dpa/afp)

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