- The European Union has introduced new regulations prohibiting companies from destroying unsold textiles and footwear, a move aimed at combating overproduction and promoting sustainability. As reported by ESG Today, this ban is part of new measures under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).
- This initiative is a key component of the EU's broader transition towards a circular economy, encouraging businesses to adopt alternatives such as resale, remanufacturing, donations, or reuse of unsold stock. The European Commission stated, "Instead of discarding stock, companies are encouraged to manage their stock more effectively, handle returns, and explore alternatives".
- The ban addresses a significant environmental issue, as an estimated 4-9% of unsold textiles in Europe are destroyed annually, generating approximately 5.6 million tons of CO2 emissions, comparable to Sweden's total net emissions in 2021, according to SDG News.
- The new rules will be enforced for large companies starting July 19, 2026, with medium-sized companies expected to comply by 2030, as noted by Retail Systems.
- Alongside the destruction ban, the EU is implementing a standardized format for businesses to disclose the volumes of unsold consumer goods they discard, which will apply from February 2027. Limited exceptions to the ban will be permitted for reasons like safety or product damage.
EU Bans Destruction of Unsold Goods
The European Union has enacted a groundbreaking ban on the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear, a critical step to combat overproduction and the 5.6 million tons of CO2 emissions generated annually by discarded goods. This pioneering regulation, part of the EU's push for a circular economy, mandates large companies to comply by July 2026, encouraging sustainable alternatives like resale and reuse.
Editorial Process: This article was drafted using AI-assisted research and thoroughly reviewed by human editors for accuracy, tone, and clarity. All content undergoes human editorial review to ensure accuracy and neutrality.
Reviewed by: Norman Metanza
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