As the trade association for over 75% of UK’s used textiles collectors and sorters, the Textile Recycling Association (TRA) recently presented an alarming statement. TRA members fear being unable to collect from charity shops, recycling centres and community textile banks due to the capacity at processing plants. The impact of the UK sector not collecting waste textiles may have devastating environmental consequences.
The used textiles industry in the UK is valued at over £1 billion and is impacting sectors such as UK Charities, local waste authorities as well as the logistics and packaging industries. However, European countries such as France, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Austria have all proposed bans on the export of ‘used’ textiles within the EU, indicating a significant shift in policy. The crisis in the Red Sea has increased operational costs and rising taxation from African and Asian markets as well as increasing pressure to restrict waste exports, has caused financial strain in the industry.
The TRA is strongly recommending the UK Government to regulate the industry, including the introduction of an EPR (extended producer responsibility) scheme, which will come into force across the EU from January 2025. According to TRA, transparent dialogue and joint efforts are needed to support and maintain a sustainable industry.
