20/07/2026
Every year, 4–9% of unsold textiles in Europe are destroyed.
Starting today, that's changing. 🇪🇺
The EU's ban on destroying unsold clothes and shoes officially comes into force today.
Large companies can no longer destroy unsold clothes, shoes, and clothing accessories. Instead, they'll need to:
🛍️ Sell them, including through discounts or alternative markets
💚 Donate them to charities or social enterprises
🔄 Reuse them
♻️ Recycle them
For medium-sized companies, the ban will apply as of 2030.
This ban will prevent wasting valuable products, including the resources and raw materials used to make them, while also reducing their environmental and climate impact.
