Revised Waste Framework Directive – textile waste

Our sector welcomes the revision of the Waste Framework Directive (WFD). Retailers and wholesalers are committed to supporting the circular economy and actively work towards reducing waste across a wide range of streams, from packaging to textiles and electrical and electronic equipment.

The revision of the WFD represents a crucial opportunity to deliver tangible benefits for climate action and resource efficiency. By fostering circular business models and supporting the creation of a real single market for secondary raw materials, the Directive can drive progress towards a more sustainable economy. To meet future ecodesign requirements on recycled content for apparel products, our members and their suppliers need to rely on a stable supply of secondary raw materials of sufficient
quality and volume.

However, we note that the revised WFD leaves certain opportunities unaddressed, particularly in relation to textile waste. This paper sets out the key concerns and priorities of the retail and wholesale sector. We hope these considerations will help shape the forthcoming WFD secondary legislation, inform the ongoing Environmental Omnibus and Circular Economy Act discussions, and guide the next revision of the WFD.