The Ecodesign Regulation – a step in the right direction

The textile industry is facing a crucial challenge: it must become more sustainable—and that calls on all of us! Alongside our personal responsibility to act consciously and sustainably, the industry needs a political framework. A first step is the EU’s Ecodesign Regulations, which set the stage for more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient production processes. To help you better understand what this means for the textile sector, we’ve taken a closer look at the Ecodesign Regulation. Find out what new requirements apply, how they affect textile production, and what opportunities they offer for the industry.

The Ecodesign Regulation: An Overview

The new EU Regulation for the Ecodesign of Sustainable Products (ESPR) is set to bring lasting change to the European economy. Coming into effect on July 18, 2024, it forms a central part of the European Green Deal and aims to create a sustainable and climate-neutral circular economy.

Unlike the previous Ecodesign Directive, which focused only on energy-related products, the new regulation applies to nearly all products sold in the EU. The textile industry is particularly important, as it is one of twelve priority product groups for which the regulation sets specific requirements.

The ESPR introduces 16 new ecodesign requirements that go beyond existing energy standards. These include criteria such as durability, reusability, reparability, resource efficiency, recyclability, and carbon footprint.

The goal: to minimize a product’s environmental impact throughout its entire life cycle. For the textile industry, this means that both manufacturers and retailers will need to place greater emphasis on how textiles are produced, used, and disposed of at the end of their lifecycle.

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What does this mean for the textile industry?

“This measure is primarily aimed at the widespread practice of destroying or incinerating surplus clothing instead of reselling, donating, or recycling it.”

The textile industry will be one of the first to adapt to the new requirements. The ESPR defines textiles (including clothing and footwear) as one of twelve priority product groups for which specific ecodesign standards will be developed:

1. Improved durability and reparability:
   Textile products must be designed to last longer and be easier to repair. This could include using high-quality materials, reinforced stitching, or replaceable components like zippers.
2. Ban on destroying unsold products:
   One of the most significant changes concerns the destruction of unsold clothing and footwear. Starting summer 2026, destroying unsold textiles and accessories will be banned in the EU. This targets the common practice of burning or disposing of surplus stock rather than reselling, donating, or recycling it. Medium-sized companies have a grace period until 2030, while small and micro businesses are exempt.
3. Circular economy and recyclability:
   The ESPR calls for improved recyclability of textile products. Companies must ensure their products are made from materials that can be easily recycled. This means textiles must be designed for simple disassembly into individual components.
4. Use of recycled materials:
   Another key goal is to promote the use of recycled materials. Textile manufacturers may be required to include a certain percentage of recycled fibers in their products to reduce raw material use and boost resource efficiency.
5. Transparency and information:
   The ESPR introduces a “Digital Product Passport” to increase transparency across the entire supply chain. This passport will contain information on a product’s carbon and environmental footprint and be accessible to consumers, industry, and authorities. It is expected to build consumer trust and support more informed purchasing decisions.

Challenges and Opportunities for the Textile Industry

The textile sector faces serious challenges—but also great opportunities. The need to act is clear (see: Sustainability). hifting to sustainable production and complying with the new ecodesign rules will require major investments in R&D, technology, and infrastructure. Smaller businesses in particular may struggle to implement these changes quickly.

Still, the regulation opens the door to innovation: the ban on destroying textiles could drive new business models such as textile recycling services. But only change can bring about change.

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Flash Sales at Neworn

We want to extend the life of products at every stage of their life cycle. That includes B-stock, samples, or one-off pieces that would otherwise be discarded—even though they’re still perfectly usable. That’s why starting this fall, we’re launching Flash Sales featuring B-stock and leftover items from great fashion brands.

With the implementation of the ESPR (Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation), we’re proud to support waste reduction and promote a circular economy. Look forward to amazing deals at unbeatable prices!

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Conclusion

The new EU Ecodesign Regulation represents a major turning point for the textile industry. The stricter requirements for sustainability, transparency, and resource efficiency will bring lasting change. Companies must adapt their business models and production processes to stay competitive.

The future of fashion is circular—and the ESPR is a key step in getting us there.