New Regulations
EPR & Textiles —
What Businesses Need to Know
Extended Producer Responsibility — EPR — is the regulatory framework that places responsibility for the end-of-life management of products on the businesses that produce, import, or sell them. You'll likely already be aware of EPR in the context of packaging, where new obligations have been rolling out across the UK. Textiles are next.
The UK government has been clear that EPR will be extended to the textile sector. The precise timeline and requirements are still being developed, but the direction of travel is not in doubt — businesses involved in producing, importing, or selling textiles will be required to contribute to the cost of collecting and recycling those textiles at end of life. Organisations that generate large volumes of textile waste will face increasing scrutiny over where that waste goes and whether it is being managed responsibly.
For businesses in the South West, this is the moment to get ahead of the curve. Establishing a documented, compliant textile recycling process now — with correct waste transfer notes and a licensed recycling partner — means you won't be scrambling to meet new requirements as they come into force.
It also means you'll have the evidence trail to demonstrate compliance when it's asked for — whether by regulators, procurement teams, or clients with their own sustainability commitments to meet.
Cornwall Recycling Group is Environment Agency registered and fully licensed to collect and broker textile waste across the South West. We can help you put a compliant textile recycling process in place today — one that works for your operation, meets your current obligations, and positions you well for the regulatory changes ahead.
WRAP — Textiles 2030 https://www.wrap.ngo/taking-action/textiles/initiatives/textiles-2030 Link text: Textiles 2030 — the UK's sustainability initiative for textiles
WRAP — Clothing waste statistics https://www.wrap.ngo/taking-action/textiles Link text: UK textile waste facts and figures
Textile Recycling Association https://www.textile-recycling.org.uk Link text: The Textile Recycling Association — industry body
Useful Site:
Environment Agency — Waste carrier registration https://www.gov.uk/register-waste-carrier Link text: Check if your waste carrier is registered
Gov.uk — Duty of care for waste https://www.gov.uk/guidance/waste-duty-of-care-code-of-practice Link text: Understanding your duty of care as a business
Gov.uk — EPR for textiles https://www.gov.uk/guidance/extended-producer-responsibility Link text: Extended Producer Responsibility — government guidance