2023-12-06 13:00:38
Wasting clothes: agreement between the European Parliament and Member States
The European Parliament and EU Member States reached an agreement on December 5, 2023 aimed at prohibiting the destruction of new, unsold clothing. This measure aims to reduce the environmental impact of production and encourage reuse and recycling. The legislation, proposed in March 2022, will come into force two years following its promulgation, marking a turning point in the management of unsold products in Europe. The Commission will even have the power to extend this ban to other products.
The new regulations provide varying application deadlines depending on the size of the company. Large companies will have to comply with this ban two years following the law comes into force, while medium-sized companies will benefit from a six-year period. Small businesses, for their part, will be exempt from this obligation. A gradual approach that aims to balance environmental imperatives with the economic realities of companies of different sizes.
The introduction of a digital passport for clothing
A major innovation of this legislation is the introduction ofa “digital passport” for clothing, in the form of a QR Code. This system will provide detailed information on the environmental impact, traceability and materials used, thus facilitating the repair and recycling of products. This increased transparency will allow consumers to make more informed and responsible choices.
It is important to note that France has already banned manufacturers from destroying new products non-food that they fail to sell, at the beginning of 2022, thus positioning itself as a pioneer. This new EU legislation aligns with French initiatives, extending these responsible practices to all Member States, and thus strengthening the European commitment to a more circular and environmentally friendly economy.
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