The Ellen MacArthur Foundation has just published its latest report. It underlines the importance of a comprehensive circular approach to solving the global textile waste problem. The extented producers responsability (ERP) is essential for implementing this approach. EPR involves producers taking responsibility for the collection, sorting and recycling of their products when they are thrown away by consumers. The Foundation believes that this policy will help to improve the management of textile waste, attract investment in the infrastructure needed to recycle and reuse textiles, and reduce the environmental impact of textile waste.
“The current textile waste management system is inadequate, with the vast majority of textiles ending up incinerated, buried or in the environment. Current business models are linear, based on the production of disposable products. It is therefore essential to set up separate collection and sorting systems to prevent textiles from ending up in the waste stream.“says the report.
The role of companies
For EPR policy to make a real contribution to a circular economy for textiles, we need to move from an approach focused on recycling to a more global approach, including the circular design of products, extending their lifespan and reducing their environmental impact. “Companies can also play an essential role by designing circular products, adopting collaborative business models and investing in shared recycling infrastructures”, says the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
Together, governments, businesses and consumers can work to transform the current textile waste management system to achieve a sustainable circular economy.
Photo : Ellen MacArthur Foundation
