The European Commission has introduced new rules under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation to stop companies from destroying unsold clothes, footwear, and accessories. Every year, about 4–9% of unsold textiles in Europe are simply thrown away, creating nearly 5.6 million tonnes of CO₂, almost the same as Sweden’s total emissions in 2021.
Starting July 2026, large retailers must only dispose of unwanted stock if there’s a legitimate reason for disposal. A uniform data format for all large retailers will be used to track the number of units that have not been sold. In 2030, all mid-size retailers must report total waste numbers.
The Delegated and implementing Acts Compliance requirement:
Clarifying derogations:
Reasonable circumstances under which destruction is allowed. i.e., safety or damage.
Facilitating disclosure:
Starting Feb 2027, businesses need to disclose the amount of unsold consumer goods they discard.
Retailers are strongly encouraged to consider the options for their overstocked merchandise, including resale, charity donation, repair of damaged products, and recycling/reuse of materials. Retailers must take their share of the responsibility for the long-term ecological sustainability of clothing as a product through minimizing environmental damage, extending the useful life of garments, and establishing a new sustainable and green business model.
