We would like to inform you about important regulatory developments in Germany regarding the introduction of extended producer responsibility (EPR) for textiles.

The German Federal Ministry for the Environment, led by Carsten Schneider, has published a policy framework (in German) outlining a future textile law aimed at addressing growing challenges in the collection and treatment of used textiles. This initiative implements the requirements of EU Directive 2025/1892 and is expected to enter into force by 17 June 2027.

The proposal responds in particular to increasing pressure on collection and recycling systems caused by the rapid expansion of fast fashion. As highlighted by the Minister, low-quality garments are often used only briefly but create long-term waste management issues, overwhelming collection infrastructure and limiting reuse and recycling potential.

Under the planned system, producers placing textiles on the German market, including brands, importers and retailers, will be required to take financial responsibility for the end-of-life of their products. This includes financing the collection, transport, sorting and recycling of used textiles through approved producer responsibility organisations (PROs). Importantly, the system will build on existing collection structures, ensuring a continued role for municipalities and charitable organisations.

A central feature of the framework is the introduction of eco-modulated fees. Producer contributions will depend not only on the quantity of textiles placed on the market but also on product characteristics such as durability, repairability and recyclability. This is intended to incentivise more sustainable product design and discourage low-quality, short-lived products.

The German authorities are currently consulting stakeholders on the proposal, with the possibility to submit feedback until 24 April 2026. Written positions can be send to the following email address CIII5@bmukn.bund.de

Key takeaways for members:

• The scope covers clothing, clothing accessories, home textiles and footwear, representing the vast majority of household textile waste.
• All producers (including importers and retailers placing products on the German market) will need to register and join a producer responsibility organisation.
• Producers will bear the full financial responsibility for the collection, sorting and recycling of textile waste.
• Fee structures will be based on both volumes and environmental performance (eco-modulation), with higher costs for low-quality, less sustainable products.
• Producer responsibility organisations will be required to ensure nationwide collection systems, largely relying on existing municipal and charitable infrastructure.
• A collection target of 70% and ambitious recovery (95%) and recycling (85%) targets are envisaged.
• Online marketplaces and fulfilment service providers will be required to verify that sellers are properly registered.
• New requirements will apply to the export of used textiles to ensure proper classification and prevent illegal waste shipments.
• Additional governance structures, including a textile commission and a joint industry body, are foreseen to support implementation and coordination.

For more information we invite you to contact our colleagues from our German associations:

Bundesverband des Deutschen Sportartikel-Industrie

The Federal Association of the German Footwear and Leather Goods Industry

The Confederation of the German Textile and Fashion Industry

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