The European Union has adopted new regulations that will prohibit companies from destroying unsold clothing and footwear, marking a significant step toward reducing textile waste and promoting sustainability across the bloc.
The measures form part of the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), a key pillar of the EU’s broader Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan. The regulation aims to make products placed on the EU market more durable, reusable, repairable and recyclable, while reducing their overall environmental footprint.
Under the new rules, companies will no longer be allowed to dispose of unsold garments and shoes by incineration or landfill, a practice that has drawn increasing public criticism in recent years.
Large companies will be required to comply first, while small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will benefit from transition periods and, in some cases, exemptions.
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The European Commission said the move is intended to Reduce waste generated by the fashion and footwear sectors, improve resource efficiency and extend product lifecycles, encourage reuse, resale and recycling of unsold goods, increase transparency in corporate sustainability practices
The textile sector is among the most resource-intensive industries in Europe, contributing significantly to carbon emissions, water consumption and waste generation. By targeting the destruction of unsold goods, EU policymakers aim to discourage overproduction and promote more responsible inventory management.
The ESPR also introduces broader ecodesign requirements that will apply to a wide range of products beyond textiles, including digital product passports that provide information on sustainability, durability and repairability.
Industry groups have acknowledged the environmental objectives but stress the need for clear implementation guidelines and practical solutions for managing excess stock.
Meanwhile, sustainability advocates have welcomed the regulation as a milestone in shifting Europe’s fashion industry toward a more circular model.
The ban is expected to reshape supply chain strategies across apparel and footwear brands operating in the EU market, reinforcing the region’s leadership in sustainable product policy.
