Petcore Europe, an association
representing the PET lifecycle
from production to packaging conversion,
has released a position paper
addressing the EU’s Ecodesign for
Sustainable Products Regulation
(ESPR), implemented in July 2024.
The paper emphasizes the need
to prioritize recyclability for postconsumer
clothing, which accounts
for 85% of textile waste in the EU.To
achieve circularity for polyester
textiles, Petcore Europe advocates for
improved collection systems, mandatory
EU wide sorting standards, and
the establishment of pre-processing
infrastructure to convert textile waste
into consistent feedstock. It also
stresses the importance of mechanical
recycling and depolymerisation
technologies to meet sustainability
goals. By 2030, the association recommends
that clothing contain at least
20% recycled material, preferably
post-consumer recycled polyester.
It also proposes the introduction of
digital product passports for polyester
textiles, detailing their composition,
repairability, recyclability, and environmental
impact.
The position paper further supports
mandatory producer accountability
for clothing return programs and
improved traceability for upcycling
initiatives. Additionally, it calls for a
reduction in textile exports to the
Global South to promote
sustainability and accountability
within the industry
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