EU directive ensures chaos: What happens to your old clothes?

Current challenges in old clothing disposal shape the discussion about the new EU directive, which has been in force since 2025. These changes are intended to ensure proper disposal of textiles, but there are confusion about the new specifications among consumers and non -profit organizations. According to LN-Online Alt textiles may only be disposed of via old clothing containers, even if they are heavily dirty or broken. The waste management Südholstein (AWSH) announced that the implementation of usable and unusable textiles impaired the collections.

The German clothing foundation welcomed the revision of the EU waste framework directive and emphasized the need for clear definitions of "waste" and "reusable textiles". Particular attention is paid to the demand for the end of manufacturer for the end of the life of your products in order to promote the development of long -lasting textiles that can be reused, repaired and recycled.

consequences for consumers and the environment

The new EU directive aims to reduce garbage amounts and improve the recycling of textiles. According to current information, less than half of all old clothes in the EU are intended for reuse or recycling. As ndr are burned, which is burned, which additional Co₂ emissions caused. In addition, every person in Germany buys an average of 60 clothing a year and throws about 11 kg away. This development is accompanied by a growing awareness of the environmental impact of the textile industry.

The Hamburg Consumer Center recommends disposing of heavily dirty or broken textiles in residual waste, while they ask non -profit organizations to provide useful old clothes in containers. A clear communication strategy is considered necessary to clarify consumers about the new rules and the correct disposal of old clothes.