Unsold clothing can no longer be destroyed in the EU: Donation requirement introduced

Until now, major textile brands routinely destroyed unsold clothing and footwear that remained on store shelves or in warehouses by burning or using other disposal methods.

Companies argued that storing these products for extended periods or putting them back on the market was more expensive than destroying them.

Under the new rules, products may only be destroyed if they have first been offered as donations to multiple charitable organizations and remain unaccepted after a specified period.

The German Retail Federation said the ban would benefit consumers, as it could increase the supply of discounted products through outlet stores, clearance sales, and second-hand channels.

The German Fashion Industry Association welcomed the new regulation.

World Wide Fund for Nature described the destruction ban as an important first step. While environmental groups have welcomed the measure, they also question how effectively it can be enforced in practice.

According to data from the European Commission, around 9% of unsold textile products in Europe are destroyed in this way every year.

In its current form, the regulation applies only to large manufacturers operating within Europe.

Source: Deutsche Presse-Agentur / MUK, HS